The UAE Ministry of Economy officially launched the ‘Summer Hospitality Camp 2025’, a nationwide initiative aimed at empowering Emirati and resident youth with hands-on training in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
In the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, the immersive program places participants directly in real-world hospitality settings — such as hotels, resorts, and tourism facilities — bridging the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience.
The initiative is a key pillar in the UAE’s broader strategy to build a skilled, future-ready workforce aligned with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which seeks to increase the sector’s contribution to GDP and position the country as a global tourism hub.
Specialized training for UAE nationals
Launched in strategic partnership with academic institutions, leading hospitality brands, and tourism companies, the camp will provide specialized training to UAE nationals and residents aged 15 to 22, including high school and university students.
It features five professional tracks — Hotels, Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Food Services, and Event Management — with training durations ranging from two to four weeks. Each track includes field training, mentorship, site visits, and interactive workshops across 35 partner establishments nationwide.
The event, attended by nearly 100 hospitality sector stakeholders, industry professionals, and student leaders, also welcomed H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, secretary general-elect of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for the 2026–2029 term.
In his keynote address, H.E. Al Marri emphasized tourism’s rising role as a driver of sustainable development and economic competitiveness, attributing the sector’s momentum to the vision of the UAE’s leadership.
He stressed the importance of developing local talent and preparing future leaders to ensure the industry’s continued growth and contribution to national prosperity.
H.E. Al Marri said: “The Summer Hospitality Camp is an investment in our young Emiratis, designed to equip them with the skills and training needed to thrive in the tourism sector. It reflects our commitment to increasing local participation in this vital industry and aligns with our vision for a dynamic tourism future led by capable Emirati talent.
“Through this initiative, we are preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators who will enrich the visitor experience in the UAE and serve as true ambassadors of our authentic Emirati identity and globally recognized hospitality.”
H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais echoed these sentiments, describing the initiative as a major step toward strengthening national capabilities and enhancing human capital in the tourism sector.
She underscored the value of hands-on learning in cultivating expertise that meets global standards, noting that the program supports international tourism trends focused on innovation, sustainability, and talent development.
Emiratization efforts
The Summer Hospitality Camp is also a key tool for advancing Emiratization in the tourism industry, offering youth the opportunity to build practical skills, leadership qualities, and a service-driven mindset before entering the workforce.
The initiative not only addresses labor market gaps but also encourages long-term career development in one of the country’s fastest-growing sectors.
The program aims to position participants as active contributors to the UAE’s future economy by offering a transformative educational experience rooted in international best practices and industry relevance.
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