The initiative supports the UAE’s AI 2031 vision and its drive toward a digital economy.
Abu Dhabi: The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis) has announced the opening of applications for the second edition of the “Nafis International” programme, inviting Emirati recent graduates and final-year university students in technology-related disciplines to participate in a two-month international training experience spanning the United Arab Emirates and the People’s Republic of China.
The programme is delivered in collaboration with Huawei, one of the world’s leading technology and innovation companies, and aligns with the UAE’s vision of building a knowledge- and innovation-driven digital economy, while supporting the objectives of the UAE National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.
Empowering Emirati talent
Originally launched in 2024, the programme aims to equip Emirati talent with advanced technological expertise, enhance their professional capabilities, and provide them with the knowledge and practical skills required in future-focused technical fields. It also seeks to develop a pool of highly qualified national professionals capable of keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and leading innovation and creativity, further strengthening the UAE’s position as a global hub for the knowledge economy and advanced technology.
Prospective applicants can visit the official Nafis platform to review registration requirements, admission criteria, and participation conditions, and submit their applications online. Eligibility requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in advanced technology disciplines, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, big data, and 5G networks. The programme is designed to enhance participants’ expertise and readiness to compete in high-growth technology sectors.
Training Programme Structure
The first phase of the programme involves selecting participants to undertake a four-week training course in the UAE, following application screening, assessments, and interviews.
In the second phase, a select group of participants will be chosen to attend an additional four-week training programme in the People’s Republic of China at Huawei’s facilities. The programme will also include visits to specialised technology and innovation centres.
The initiative aims to highlight the role of Nafis in empowering and preparing Emirati talent for the future. It further reinforces the programme’s position as a distinguished global opportunity for skills development and professional growth, supporting career advancement and excellence across a wide range of key and future-oriented sectors.
The second edition has been enhanced based on insights and feedback from participants in the inaugural cohort, as well as recommendations from experts, decision-makers, and specialists across the UAE’s technology sector. These inputs have helped refine the programme’s content and strengthen its training outcomes to better address the evolving needs of the labour market and digital economy, while remaining aligned with future requirements.
Modern technology as a driver of quality of life
Ghanem Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, said: “We recognise the growing importance of modern technology and its pivotal role in improving quality of life and driving transformation and development. This understanding has motivated us to launch the second edition of this specialised training programme, which aligns with the UAE’s vision of building a competitive digital economy founded on knowledge and innovation and supports the objectives of the UAE National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031. The first edition provided participants with valuable experience and exposure to leading global companies, reflecting the Council’s commitment to investing in national talent, developing their capabilities, and equipping them with the knowledge needed to keep pace with rapid technological transformations worldwide.”
For his part, Jerry Liu, Chairman of Huawei UAE, said: “Huawei remains committed to working closely with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council to empower the next generation of Emirati youth with future-ready capabilities and access to advanced knowledge resources. Through opportunities for technical learning, skills development, and innovation in critical technology fields, we aim to strengthen students’ digital competencies and equip them with the expertise required to compete successfully in the labour market, while further enhancing their country’s global leadership and competitiveness.”
Nafis International Programme for Emirati Fresh Graduates
The Nafis International Programme was launched by the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council to equip and empower young Emirati talent with global exposure and advanced skills in technology and innovation. The programme targets Emirati fresh graduates and final-year university students, offering a unique international training experience in collaboration with Huawei, a global leader in technology and digital innovation.
The programme supports the UAE’s vision of building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy by enhancing the readiness of national talent for the future labour market. Participants gain valuable technical and leadership skills, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and practical experience in diverse international work environments.
The Nafis International Programme serves as an important platform for developing globally competitive Emirati professionals capable of contributing to the UAE’s ongoing development and digital transformation journey.
