Etihad Airways has announced a transformative UAE National Talent Development Strategy that aims to empower Emirati professionals and cultivate local expertise. This initiative positions Etihad as a leading employer for UAE Nationals, especially as the aviation sector in the UAE continues to expand rapidly. The strategy focuses on increasing the hiring of Emirati talent across various operational areas, including both technical and corporate functions.

The airline employs over 1,200 Emiratis in key roles such as pilots, engineers, and operations specialists, with 431 of them being pilots. Impressively, female Emiratis make up 48% of the airline’s Emirati workforce. Etihad has shown a strong commitment to inclusivity, demonstrated by an employee retention rate of 94%, highlighting its dedication to the continuous growth and professional development of its workforce.

To attract and retain top Emirati talent, Etihad’s strategy includes specialized programs tailored to both technical and corporate training. The Cadet Pilot Programme offers a two-year training journey that combines theoretical instruction and flight experience in locations such as Abu Dhabi and Spain. Additionally, the Cadet Technician Programme spans five years, blending academic learning with practical training for aspiring Aircraft Technicians. On the corporate side, the Bedayati Programme provides fresh graduates with hands-on training across various business functions, while high-performing MBA graduates can participate in an accelerated 13-month MBA Future Leader Programme.

Etihad Airways plans to engage aspiring Emirati professionals through a series of career fairs, which will provide them with opportunities to learn about the National Talent Development Programme. These events will allow candidates to connect with programme leaders and gain insights into the application process, while also featuring exclusive sessions with industry experts who will share their experiences. By acting as a strategic recruitment platform, these career fairs are designed to facilitate the entry of Emirati talent into the aviation sector.

Etihad Airways invites ambitious UAE Nationals to join its National Talent Development Strategy, offering them a chance to contribute to the airline’s ongoing success and the broader growth of the UAE’s aviation industry. This initiative ensures that Emirati talent remains central to the airline’s future, paving the way for the next generation of aviation professionals to thrive.