DIFC launches Dubai Financial Experts Program to develop next generation of national leaders in financial services

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has recently launched the "Dubai Financial Experts Programme." This program aims to cultivate a new generation of Emirati leaders and drive innovative development in financial institutions in Dubai, the UAE, and even globally. The project embodies Dubai's commitment to nurturing local financial talent and enhancing its competitiveness in the global financial arena.

This program, conducted in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development (MBRCLD), aims to cultivate outstanding Emirati leaders. It enhances the knowledge, skills, and abilities of Emiratis in the financial services sector through customized courses, while also fostering their entrepreneurial thinking and leadership skills. The program will inject new vitality into the future development of the UAE's financial industry.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and President of DIFC, emphasized that Dubai will continue to cultivate and empower creative Emirati talent, providing them with the highest level of knowledge and experience, which aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Maktoum also highlighted that the program supports the goal of launching specialized initiatives to train national leaders who can strengthen the UAE's position as a global economic center and achieve the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

His Excellency Mohammad Al Gergawi, Chairman of the Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of MBRCLD, stated that the "Dubai Financial Experts Programme" embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to cultivate a new generation of leaders who will be capable of leading transformative projects and key economic sectors, while managing, developing, and innovating in leading financial institutions locally and regionally. His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, said that the program aims to enhance national talent by leveraging the latest tools and expertise in financial services and leadership skills.

The program is aimed at UAE nationals aged between 25 and 35, with 5 to 10 years of professional experience, including experience in the financial industry. Ideal candidates should have a strong educational background, leadership abilities in team leadership or strategic project management, and a clear drive for success. Selection will be based on a comprehensive assessment of leadership and financial capabilities. The program is aligned with DIFC's 2030 strategy, which focuses on leading the future of finance, and is in accordance with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

The "Dubai Financial Experts Programme" is a comprehensive six-part program designed to cultivate future financial leaders. It includes a specialized curriculum on the future of financial services leadership and innovation developed in partnership with the University of Oxford, complemented by partnerships in Silicon Valley. Participants will receive advanced training and guidance from leading experts and innovators in the field, and gain practical experience through world-class job shadowing opportunities at major financial institutions. Furthermore, a capstone project focused on generating real-world impact and transferring learned knowledge to the workplace is a core element of the program. Participants will also benefit from exclusive meetings with prominent financial and economic leaders. The program will culminate in a graduation ceremony held during the Mohammed Bin Rashid Leadership Forum in 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development aims to "create leaders for tomorrow" by nurturing the next generation of Emirati leaders. Through dedicated programs and targeted initiatives, the center identifies, develops, and empowers leaders at all levels. Moreover, these programs equip participants with the diverse skills necessary to navigate a rapidly changing landscape, adapt to new developments with agility and wisdom, and make informed decisions to address future challenges. The center further cultivates leaders with competence and a broad vision to create innovative solutions to address complex future problems.