Dubai Airports said it has launched a nation-wide graduate development programme aimed at attracting and developing the next generation of UAE national aviation professionals.

Dubai Airports is the owner and manager of both the emirate’s airports, Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC),

Titled 'Masar' (Arabic for Path), the year-long programme is part of Dubai Airports’ on-going commitment to national development, said a statement from the company.

In its inaugural year, Masar will offer eight Emirati graduates, selected through a stringent merit-based process, an opportunity to acquire skills and hands-on experience in fields as varied as airside operations, engineering services, terminal operations, group strategy, human resources and finance.
 
In 2012 Masar will target graduates of Higher Colleges of Technology, Emirates Aviation College, American University of Dubai, The British University in Dubai and Dubai University, but qualifying national graduates from other universities can also apply, the airport company added.

Candidates can apply for the programme by registering with Dubai Airports on the company’s website. Applications will be accepted until March 19, the statement said.

Selected graduates will work through a year-long development schedule that will be industry-relevant and involve specialised training, external workshops and on-the-job training.

Participants will be assessed quarterly and provided with timely feedback. At the end of the programme candidates may be selected for continued employment with Dubai Airports based on performance.

The UAE nationals are playing an increasingly influential role in the success of Dubai Airports, said a top official.

“I endorse the approach we are taking by focusing on the development of UAE nationals at the management level to ensure a strong pipeline of talent is available to become our leaders of the future. I am equally pleased with the progress to date,” said Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the chairman of Dubai Airports.

According to 2011 staff statistics, 37 per cent of all employees in supervisory and management grades were UAE nationals while 24 per cent of the total employee base comprised Emiratis. Further some 60 per cent of executive-level managers are Emiratis.

Meshari Al Bannai, VP (Human Resources) for Dubai Airports said Dubai Airports’ human resources team has two clear goals: to be the employer of choice in the GCC and to deliver competent people thriving in a great workplace. “Masar advances us on both fronts,” she added.

Dubai Airports has already achieved considerable success in this regard, last year being named 2011 Employer of the Year in the 3rd Annual GCC HR Excellence Awards.

Samya Ketait, VP of Learning & Development at Dubai Airports, said Masar provides aspiring Emirati students with a unique opportunity to join a dynamic and fast-growing industry.

“Our business is growing rapidly and there is a great opportunity for talented and promising Emirati to build a rewarding career,” said Ketait.

“Ultimately, the success of any graduate development programme depends on the selection process. We will be looking for the right values, qualifications and aptitudes to ensure candidates meet the job criteria and will feel at home in an exciting and fast-paced environment,” she added.-TradeArabia News Service