DIB strengthens its commitment to youth empowerment with launch of first Youth Council.
Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the UAE’s largest Islamic bank, has launched its first Youth Council to give young employees a structured platform to share ideas, contribute to key initiatives and play a more active role in shaping their development within the organisation.
The council comprises eight members from diverse backgrounds and will operate for two years. Through regular meetings, leadership interactions and project discussions, members will develop ideas and contribute to areas including customer experience, employee engagement, brand relevance and innovation.
The council will also provide a direct link between young employees and senior leadership, allowing fresh perspectives to inform discussions about the organisation’s future.
Youth empowerment
The initiative reflects DIB’s belief that meaningful youth empowerment requires more than participation, giving young employees access to leadership, greater responsibility and opportunities to influence the organisation’s direction.
The launch coincided with International Youth Day on August 12 and featured a dialogue with DIB Group Chief Executive Officer Dr Adnan Chilwan under the theme “A Conversation with Future Leaders”. Council members discussed their aspirations and potential contributions, while also making a pledge to mark the beginning of their two-year term.
Dr Chilwan said investing in young people was among the most important investments an institution could make, highlighting their curiosity, ambition and willingness to approach familiar challenges differently.
He said the Youth Council forms part of DIB’s wider commitment to preparing the next generation for future opportunities and responsibilities, while aligning with the UAE’s National Youth Agenda 2031 and the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
Rafia Al Abbar, Head of Human Resources at DIB, said the council would provide a structured platform for understanding young employees’ perspectives and turning relevant ideas into practical initiatives.
She added that the programme would give members opportunities to take ownership, collaborate across different areas and develop their skills through hands-on participation.
The initiative builds on DIB’s wider investment in learning and youth development, including DIB Academy and its financial literacy programmes for young people.
Together, these initiatives underline the bank’s focus on developing talent, encouraging continuous learning and creating opportunities for young people to grow and contribute within DIB and the wider community.
