Government

The 24th edition of Ru’ya concluded at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) today, setting new records in job creation and skills development opportunities for Emirati youth. Over three days, thousands of job offers and on-site interviews were conducted, reinforcing Ru’ya’s position as the UAE’s premier platform for employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Innovation in action

Among the event’s highlights was the launch of Dubai Municipality’s Virtual Reality Food Safety Inspector programme, a first-of-its-kind initiative that allows participants to practice real-life inspection scenarios in the food and beverage sector. The municipality also collaborated with Rochester Institute of Technology – Dubai to introduce a Professional Certificate in Data Analytics, aimed at equipping young Emiratis with advanced digital skills in line with Dubai’s digital transformation agenda.

In addition, Dubai Police’s Air Wing recruitment drive attracted strong attention, announcing roles for University Lieutenant Pilots and Cadet Pilots to support humanitarian operations, search-and-rescue missions, and community services. Dubai Customs also showcased its flagship Masar 33 programme, offering professional development in customs, logistics, and trade.

Employers step up hiring

Leading organisations across aviation, healthcare, retail, insurance, logistics, and digital services participated, aligning recruitment efforts with the UAE’s Emiratisation targets. Ru’ya’s Get Hired! initiative enabled quick-fire interviews, accelerating job placements for candidates.

“Ru’ya has become an exceptional bridge between talented Emirati youth and employers who are ready to invest in them,” said Asma Alsharif, AVP, Sustainable Development, Exhibitions, DWTC. “This year we saw strong demand not only in traditional industries, but also in future-focused areas such as data analytics, aviation, and digital services.”

Shamsa Al Falasi, UAE Citi Country Officer and CEO of Citibank N.A., UAE, added: “Ru’ya 2025 served as an exceptional platform to connect with ambitious young Emiratis, allowing us to showcase key initiatives such as our Mehnaty programme and the opportunities we offer through internships, early careers, and professional roles.”

Youth entrepreneurship and competitions

For the first time, the Ru’ya Concept Store featured nine Emirati start-ups, giving entrepreneurs the chance to sell products ranging from art to fashion and accessories. Amal Alkaabi, owner of By Sparkle, said: “Ru’ya gave me the chance to be part of their concept store. The support for Emiratis was amazing, helping me showcase my products, connect with the community, and receive collaboration offers.”

Students also took the spotlight through competitions. Winners included:

• Etihad Private School – “Game Out to Mars” competition

• Deira International School – “FutureFit by DIDI”

• Al Ittihad Private School Jumeirah – “The Next Founder Competition”

• Al Mawakeb, Garhoud – “The Hackathon”

Strong institutional support

Ru’ya 2025 was backed by leading sponsors including DP World (Platinum), Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank – ADIB (Gold), and Emirates National Oil Company – ENOC (Silver).

PwC Middle East also spotlighted its Watani programme, which has already integrated over 250 Emiratis into its workforce. Khaled Bin Braik, Consulting Partner and Emiratisation Programme Leader at PwC Middle East, said: “Our partnership with Ru’ya reinforces our commitment to Emirati talent and supports the UAE’s vision for the future.”

Looking ahead

With record participation and groundbreaking initiatives, Ru’ya 2025 cemented its role as a cornerstone of the UAE’s Emiratisation and youth empowerment strategy. The next edition of Ru’ya will return to DWTC from 28 to 30 September 2026, continuing its mission to connect young Emiratis with employers, innovators, and mentors shaping the nation’s future.

• Tags
• #Business
• #Magazine
• #Lifestyle