In a significant achievement for the Emirati youth, 92 students graduated from the “Ajeel Al-Siyaha” summer camp programme, a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing local competencies in tourism and hospitality. This celebration, held by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, highlights a commitment to nurturing a new generation equipped with the necessary skills and confidence to contribute to the future of the tourism sector in the emirate.
Comprehensive Training Experience
The programme was hosted across various locations in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Le Roches. Over the course of two weeks, participants engaged in intensive practical training and field experiences within the tourism sector. This hands-on approach allowed students to gain invaluable insights into the fast-growing economic sector that tourism represents in Abu Dhabi.
Participants completed over 7,360 hours of practical learning, which included training in different hotel departments, specialised workshops, educational visits, and direct interactions with industry leaders. This immersive experience expanded their understanding of the diverse roles and career paths available within the tourism ecosystem of the emirate, while simultaneously developing their practical skills and boosting their confidence.
Hands-On Learning Across the Sector
The programme enabled students to acquire real-world experience in six core hospitality specialisations, including reception services, culinary arts, barista skills, visitor relations, hospitality marketing, and visitor experience management. Participants had the opportunity to explore various cultural and tourist destinations, offering them exclusive insights into the daily operations of museums and heritage sites. These visits familiarised them with destination management practices and illustrated how Abu Dhabi’s tourism strategy is translated into real-world experiences across its cultural and tourist facilities.
To culminate their training, students undertook a final project that required them to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills to devise innovative solutions for real challenges faced by the tourism industry. They presented their projects to a panel of experts, demonstrating their ability to think critically and creatively in a professional environment.
Investing in Future Talent
Salih Mohammed Al Jazairi, General Director of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, stated: “Building the future of the tourism sector in Abu Dhabi begins with investing in Emirati competencies capable of driving sustainable growth in the long term. Through the ‘Ajeel Al-Siyaha’ summer camp programme, we offer our youth a qualitative experience that transcends traditional training, enabling them to gain practical insights, explore the opportunities within this vital sector, and build the skills and confidence necessary to achieve their career aspirations.”
He further emphasised that by training and empowering young people, the foundation will be established for a strong and sustainable workforce that can effectively contribute to the sector’s development and elevate Abu Dhabi’s status as a global tourist destination.
Georgeite Devey, General Director of the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Le Roches, echoed this sentiment, saying: “The future of the hospitality sector is defined by the level of competencies we invest in developing today. Preparing the next generation requires more than technical skills; it necessitates fostering curiosity, adaptability, cultural awareness, and a strong commitment to excellence in service delivery. We take pride in our partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi in developing Emirati competencies and empowering them to take on meaningful leadership roles, enhancing guest experiences and contributing to the continued growth of the hospitality sector.”
Overall, the “Ajeel Al-Siyaha” summer camp programme reflects the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi’s commitment to developing Emirati competencies, providing clear and sustainable career pathways for youth in the tourism and hospitality sector. Through a combination of practical experience, professional mentorship, and specialised training, the programme fosters a new base of qualified national talents, enhancing their readiness to participate in the sector’s growth journey while supporting the long-term goals outlined in the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030.