More than 4,500
Officials announced that the program has successfully generated over 5,200 employment opportunities for UAE nationals since its inception in 2023, exceeding its initial goal of creating 5,000 jobs by 2027. This year’s exhibition saw more than 800 candidates progress to the next stages of recruitment, reflecting a robust demand from both employers and Emirati talent. "This year we crossed another 1,000 opportunities, allowing us to exceed the 5,000-job target a full year ahead of schedule," stated Omar Al Nuaimi, ADNOC's acting group chief commercial and in-country value officer.
Unlike traditional job fairs, the exhibition emphasized direct engagement through on-the-spot interviews and expedited hiring processes. More than 70 companies from the industrial, advanced technology, and services sectors participated under the UAE's National In-Country Value (ICV) Programme, offering a range of positions from technical and engineering roles to administrative and corporate functions.
The rapid growth of the UAE's industrial sector has led to an increasing demand for skilled Emiratis, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. Ibtisam Al Saadi, acting assistant undersecretary for industrial development at MoIAT, noted a significant shift in mindset among young Emiratis, with more graduates pursuing careers in AI, cybersecurity, and advanced technology. "More graduates are now looking at private-sector careers as pathways for learning, growth, and long-term development," she remarked.
The exhibition aligns with the UAE's goal to enhance national participation in the private sector, aiming for Emiratis to occupy 10 percent of skilled jobs in private companies by year-end. Among the success stories highlighted was Alyazia Al Ahbabi from Al Ain, who received a job offer on the same day. Graduate Hesham Adam expressed that the fair provided valuable insights into career opportunities, while previous attendee Moza Al Zaabi shared her journey from being hired by Emirates Food Industries to becoming a senior quality supervisor within a year. The Industrialists Career Exhibition continues to be a vital platform connecting Emirati talent with emerging industries, supporting the UAE's economic diversification and Emiratisation objectives.