Dubai Islamic Bank, the largest Islamic bank in the UAE, has launched the third cohort of its Emirati Development Program, in collaboration with partners SHRM and Phoenix Consulting.
In an evolving financial landscape, Dubai Islamic Bank has stepped up by initiating the Emirati Development Program (EDP), which commenced in 2023. Tailored specifically for business leaders and line managers, the program aims to provide an enriching learning journey that prepares participants with essential skills needed to navigate the dynamic banking sector.
The aim of the EDP is to cultivate future leaders through a comprehensive learning approach that encompasses technical, behavioral, and leadership competencies. A significant element of this initiative is to enhance digital proficiency, aligning with the bank’s vision to foster a digital-first culture and spearhead digital transformation within the industry.
Dubai Islamic Bank has a rich history, having been established in 1975 and now boasting total assets of approximately $80 billion and revenues around $2.4 billion. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, the bank operates numerous branches across the UAE, significantly contributing to the local economy.
Designed in partnership with SHRM, a prominent organization dedicated to advancing the HR profession, as well as Phoenix Consulting, a credited firm in human capital consulting, this third cohort will undergo a customized assessment pathway over the coming months. The objective is to equip leaders with the tools and knowledge required to implement their learnings directly into their managerial roles.
Nida Shahid, Director of SHRM’s MENA division, emphasized the importance of this partnership by stating, “The Emirati Development Program is a key talent management initiative aimed at building a future-ready talent pipeline. We’re proud to support this program and create value for the participants.”
As the program unfolds, participants engage deeply, learning alongside their peers and mentors. This collaborative environment fosters a network of support, ensuring that individuals are not only equipped with theoretical knowledge but also practical insights that can be applied in real-world situations.
Seniora El-Hage, leading the Phoenix Consulting team supporting the program, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This program advances Dubai Islamic Bank’s Emiratization strategy, strengthens its digital-first capabilities, and nurtures the next generation of leaders. Together, we’re shaping the future of Emirati leadership.”
Emiratization Initiative and Alignment with National Vision
The Emirati Development Program is integral to Dubai Islamic Bank’s commitment to the Emiratization initiative, a key component of the UAE Vision 2031. This initiative aims to effectively employ and upskill UAE nationals across both public and private sectors, contributing to the nation’s broader economic objectives.
The program also aligns with the UAE’s National Strategy for Higher Education 2030. This alignment reflects a dedication to building a knowledge-based economy, emphasizing the significance of skills, innovation, and human capital in driving the nation forward.
The EDP team collaborates closely with the newly established DIB Academy, launched in April this year, which serves as a pivotal learning platform for all bank employees. The DIB Academy provides a diverse range of learning opportunities, encompassing internally developed curricula, vocational certifications, and modular learning paths that span across technical, behavioral, leadership, and regulatory domains.
During these learning experiences, participants are exposed to expert insights and actionable knowledge through keynotes and interactive discussions. This further enriches their understanding of the sector and enhances their ability to drive innovation within their teams.
Adnan Chilwan, Group Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Islamic Bank, has voiced his perspective on the value of investing in human capital, stating, “No institution can sustain its leadership without investing in the intellectual depth of its people. The DIB Academy is about capability for tomorrow. This initiative reflects our long-term view that knowledge is infrastructure and skills are capital.”
