Dubai to Host The Future Leaders Challenge Finals 2026
A Premier Hospitality and Tourism Event
In 2026, Dubai will serve as the backdrop for The Future Leaders Challenge (FLC) Finals, an exciting international event that aims to bring together students from hospitality and tourism programs, educators, prominent industry leaders, and public-sector representatives. This gathering will focus on shaping the future of leadership and talent development within these vital sectors.
A Global Initiative for Tomorrow’s Leaders
The Future Leaders Challenge is not just another conference; it’s a unique educational initiative that fosters connections among students, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders through challenge-based learning. Its primary goal is to equip aspiring professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary for the evolving landscape of hospitality and tourism.
Event Details and Venue
Scheduled from February 9 to 11, 2026, the finals will take place aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, will take on the role of Global Patron for the event. Kazim’s involvement underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders by leveraging his strategic insights into talent development.
Dubai’s Role in Shaping Future Talent
Dubai has positioned itself as a global hub for innovation and opportunity, making it an ideal venue for the Future Leaders Challenge. This city’s dedication to fostering future-ready professionals aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the challenge. By hosting this event, Dubai reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the connections between education, industry, and government.
Collaborative Learning in Action
The finals will bring together high-performing student teams from various national and regional editions of the Future Leaders Challenge. Participants will work collaboratively in diverse, international teams to tackle real-world challenges impacting the hospitality and tourism sectors. This hands-on approach not only enhances their leadership skills but also ensures that the concepts they develop have relevance in today’s job market.
Gathering of Education Leaders
Apart from the student-centered activities, the finals will serve as a pivotal gathering for leaders in hospitality and tourism education throughout the Middle East and Africa. Dedicated dialogue sessions will provide opportunities for participants to engage in meaningful discussions about curriculum design, talent development, and the alignment of educational offerings with industry needs. This dialogue aims to create a more cohesive approach to workforce preparation.
Looking Ahead: Future Announcements
During the event, attendees can expect a significant announcement regarding the next chapter of the Future Leaders Challenge. This announcement will include the launch of a broader initiative that aims to strengthen and connect the educational ecosystem for hospitality and tourism talent. With this ambitious vision, the Future Leaders Challenge continues to position itself as a cornerstone for developing skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of a dynamic industry.
In summary, the Future Leaders Challenge Finals 2026 in Dubai is set to be a groundbreaking event that brings together education and industry, paving the way for the next generation of leaders in hospitality and tourism.

