QE2 Hospitality Academy to participate in Future Hospitality Summit World 2025, highlighting workforce innovation in the hospitality sector

Government

QE2 Hospitality Academy to participate in Future Hospitality Summit World 2025, highlighting workforce innovation in the hospitality sector

QE2 Hospitality Academy, the region’s only cruise liner–based hospitality training institution, has announced its participation in Future Hospitality Summit World 2025 (FHS World 2025), taking place from October 27 to 29, 2025, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. Organized by THE BENCH under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Economy, the summit will be held under the theme “Where Vision Leads, Investment Follows.”

Recognized as one of the world’s foremost platforms for hospitality investment, leadership, and collaboration, FHS World 2025 is expected to draw over 1,600 delegates from more than 50 countries, including 300 global investors managing a combined $5 trillion in assets. The summit will serve as a vital meeting point for international decision-makers and innovators shaping the future of the global hospitality landscape.

As part of the official program, Patrick Coodien, Director of QE2 Hospitality Academy, will deliver a keynote session titled “From Challenge to Solution: Hospitality Workforce Sprint” on Tuesday, October 28, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the Murjaan Room. The session will address the need to rethink workforce development strategies amid evolving industry demands, new technologies, and changing expectations from both employers and employees.

Drawing from his extensive background in hospitality education, Patrick will discuss pressing challenges such as talent shortages, upskilling, and industry-academia partnerships. He will highlight how QE2 Hospitality Academy is addressing these through immersive learning, industry collaboration, and a curriculum that bridges classroom theory and operational practice. The session aims to foster actionable dialogue and showcase models that can be adapted globally, with a particular focus on the Middle East’s fast-evolving tourism and hospitality sectors.

The panel will also include distinguished experts such as Bertrand Audrin (EHL Hospitality Business School), Jeff Strachan (Dubai College of Tourism), Roland Hancock (PwC Middle East), Dr. Achim Schmitt (EHL Hospitality Business School), and Markus Venzin (CEO, EHL Group).

Speaking ahead of the event, Patrick Coodien emphasized the Academy’s mission:

“As a proud participant at FHS World 2025, QE2 Hospitality Academy is honored to engage with global leaders shaping the future of hospitality. Our focus on workforce innovation and skills development reflects our commitment to preparing the next generation of hospitality professionals through globally recognized, experience-based education.”

The summit will also feature keynote addresses from leading figures including HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, HE Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Naser Mohamed Ali Naser Alnuwaiis, HE Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, and Abdullah Ahmed Al Moosa.

Supported by over 80 sponsors and partners, FHS World 2025 will unite investors, hotel owners, developers, operators, and government leaders. Nearly half of the attending investors will be first-time participants, with 45% joining from outside the GCC. The 2024 edition generated more than $1.7 billion in business opportunities, underscoring its position as a catalyst for high-impact hospitality investments.

Through its participation, QE2 Hospitality Academy reaffirms its alignment with the UAE National Tourism Strategy 2031 and its mission to advance vocational education and workforce excellence in the region. As the Middle East’s only cruise liner-based hospitality academy, the institution continues to pioneer experiential learning models that prepare students for careers across luxury hospitality, cruise lines, aviation, logistics, and premium service industries.

Located aboard Dubai’s iconic Queen Elizabeth 2, the Academy offers internationally accredited programs under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation. Its students benefit from world-class training, internships with five-star hotels, and hands-on learning aboard a historic setting—equipping them with the global skills and confidence to excel in the ever-evolving hospitality sector.