ADGM Academy and DGE Mawaheb Talent Hub Expand Partnership to Advance UAE National Workforce
Abu Dhabi, UAE – February 3, 2026
ADGM Academy and the Department of Government Enablement’s (DGE) Mawaheb Talent Hub announced an expansion of their strategic partnership to equip UAE nationals with skills for high-demand sectors. The collaboration targets 620 job placements in 2026 while introducing new programs in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. This builds on efforts since 2022 that have upskilled over 4,500 Emiratis.
Overview
The partnership, launched in 2022, now scales with 2026 programs including the Software Development Accelerator Programme, Technology Infrastructure Programme, and Strategic Business Intelligence Programme. The initiative focuses on government and semi-government employability, creating over 1,000 specialized jobs in banking, digital services, auditing, insurance, consultancy, and taxation to date. ADGM Academy’s Job Centre places over 1,000 candidates annually, with 61% benefiting Abu Dhabi’s labour market.
Partnership Details
The partnership, launched in 2022, now scales with 2026 programs including the Software Development Accelerator Programme, Technology Infrastructure Programme, and Strategic Business Intelligence Programme. The initiative focuses on government and semi-government employability, creating over 1,000 specialized jobs in banking, digital services, auditing, insurance, consultancy, and taxation to date. ADGM Academy’s Job Centre places over 1,000 candidates annually, with 61% benefiting Abu Dhabi’s labour market.
Stakeholder Perspectives
“Our expanded collaboration with Mawaheb Talent Hub, enabled by the Department of Government Enablement, is anchored in measurable success. As the UAE moves forward with its vision for a knowledge-based economy, our joint efforts have continued to set a benchmark for strategic partnerships and will continue to do so by driving sustainable human capital development.”
— Ali Al Mehairi, Senior Executive Director at ADGM Academy
Why it matters: The statement underscores the partnership’s proven track record in advancing national workforce capabilities aligned with UAE’s economic transformation goals.
“This partnership ensures that the talent we nurture through Mawaheb has a clear, accelerated pathway to sustainable employment in high-priority sectors, driving real value for both the candidates and the entities that hire them.”
— Dr. Abdulla Al Shimmari, Executive Director of National Workforce Enablement at DGE and Mawaheb Talent Hub
Why it matters: The emphasis on direct employment pathways demonstrates the program’s practical approach to addressing talent shortages in critical sectors.
Industry Context
UAE’s financial hubs like ADGM prioritize fintech and technology skills amid rapid digital transformation. This initiative aligns with national Emiratisation goals, addressing talent shortages in a knowledge economy. Such public-private partnerships exemplify efficient workforce development models, potentially setting standards for GCC nations facing similar demographic shifts and economic diversification objectives.
Centered in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, the expanded partnership bolsters the emirate’s position as a global finance center while supporting UAE-wide labour market needs in strategic sectors experiencing sustained growth.
Conclusion
The expanded agenda promises sustained career pathways for UAE nationals in priority sectors, fostering long-term economic contributions through targeted skills development and direct employment placement mechanisms.
Sources: Zawya, Department of Government Enablement, Mawaheb Talent Hub
