By Muzna Al Otaiba, Managing Director of MHAO Group
Dubai, UAE, 1 November 2024: In recent years, Emiratisation has become a cornerstone of the UAE’s national agenda, driving the country’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy and a global business hub. As the Managing Director of Mohamed Hareb Al Otaiba Group (MHAO Group), one of the oldest and most established business conglomerates in the UAE, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that the strategic integration of local talent can have on both our company and the wider economy.
The UAE has always been a land of opportunity, built on a foundation of visionary leadership and forward-thinking policies. But the strength of a nation lies not only in its infrastructure or resources but in the development of its people. Emiratisation is more than a policy; it is a commitment to ensure that UAE nationals are empowered to take ownership of their country’s future by playing pivotal roles in its progress across industries.
At MHAO Group, we view Emiratisation as a long-term investment in the future of our nation. It is about nurturing homegrown talent and equipping Emiratis with the skills, experience, and leadership qualities needed to thrive in today’s competitive global market. By providing structured development opportunities and targeted training programs, we are building the next generation of Emirati leaders who will drive innovation and lead our organization—and the country—into a prosperous future.
Our journey in fostering Emirati talent is guided by a core belief that nationals should not only have a seat at the table but should actively contribute to shaping the economic and business landscape. This vision aligns with the UAE government’s ongoing efforts to bolster national participation across both the private and public sectors. Mohamed Hareb Al Otaiba Group has proudly doubled its Emirati workforce in 2024 compared to the previous year, with plans to double it again by 2025. Currently, six of our senior executive leadership positions are held by UAE nationals, which includes both men and women, reinforcing our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive leadership team.
The role of women in this equation cannot be overstated. Women have always been integral to the UAE’s success, and today, they hold leadership positions across various sectors, contributing to the nation’s continued growth and prosperity. At MHAO Group, 30% of our leadership roles are held by women, and we are continuously working to increase this representation. It is imperative that we create an environment where women, particularly Emirati women, are empowered to lead and excel, contributing their unique perspectives and expertise.
However, Emiratisation is not just about filling positions with nationals; it is about creating meaningful career pathways and ensuring that Emiratis are equipped to succeed in roles that align with their strengths and aspirations. This is why we have invested in strategic partnerships with world-class institutions such as KPMG, Mercer, and the American University of Cairo, providing our employees with access to training, leadership development, and talent assessment programs. These initiatives are designed to develop our Emirati workforce at every level, from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles.
For example, our Al Nukhba and Bidaya programs offer tailored development journeys for Emiratis, helping them grow from junior specialists to managers through targeted training and mentorship. We have also introduced a special version of the Al Nukhba program for People of Determination, further reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all Emiratis to advance in their careers.
The success of Emiratisation depends not only on providing opportunities but also on ensuring that these opportunities lead to meaningful, impactful careers. It requires collaboration between the private sector, government, and educational institutions to create an ecosystem where Emirati talent can flourish. As a business leader, I see it as our responsibility to create an environment that supports the ambitions of Emirati professionals, offering them the tools they need to succeed.
