Emirati Youths Excel in Dubai Metro

Pioneering Role: Emirati Youths' Success in Dubai Metro

In recent years, the United Arab Emirates has placed significant emphasis on integrating the national workforce into key areas of technology and infrastructure-driven economic sectors. A particularly striking example of this is the world of Dubai Metro, where one of the first Emirati citizens now holds a leadership position in railway operations. His story is not only about personal success but also reflects a generational shift in mindset and the effectiveness of domestic training programs.

The Beginning: From a Nol Card Counter to the Control Center

The career seemed simple at first glance: a recently recruited young Emirati began working as a station agent in the Dubai Metro system, selling tickets and the famous Nol cards to passengers. From the start, he noticed the low representation of Emiratis in technical and operational positions, particularly in railway management and engineering.

This realization motivated him not just to be part of the system but to actively strive to become the first Emirati to undertake train control tasks. His ambition soon turned into action, and through hard work, he achieved his goal: he worked flawlessly for a year handling trains in depots, after which he became a mainline operator. From there, it was just a step to becoming an official trainer and examiner for new employees.

Mentorship for the Next Generation

Today, he is a senior controller at the Dubai Metro Operations Control Center and mentors 14 local employees, including five Emirati women who now independently operate trains on the country's urban rail networks.

His work and dedication have not gone unnoticed: he achieved second place in the 2024 Nafis Awards and won first prize in the "specialized jobs" category in 2025. His example not only inspires his generation but also young Emiratis who are still finding their place in the labor market.

Estaed: Shaping Mindset for Success

This career path is supported by programs like the three-month "Estaed" initiative launched by the Human Resources Ministry of Ras Al Khaimah, specifically aimed at preparing Emirati talents and enhancing their competitiveness in the modern labor market. The program's uniqueness lay in the fact that technical skills made up only 20 percent of the education; the focus was much more on developing emotional intelligence, self-confidence, and communication skills.

According to one training leader, the biggest challenge was not acquiring new knowledge but changing mindsets. Recognizing that success doesn't wait for anyone and must be actively created through deliberate skills fundamentally transformed participants' attitudes.

Personal Development, Workplace Success

Participants unanimously highlighted that boosting self-confidence and confidently presenting in public were the greatest gains. Some already worked in state communications departments but felt they reached a completely new level through English language improvements and public speaking practice. Others reported having unsuccessfully applied to dozens of jobs before, but after the program, their interest surged dramatically: they received over ten job offers and now choose among opportunities.

The program's curriculum covered a wide range from AI applications to resume writing, data management, and customer service skills, encompassing all topics essential to today's competitive job market.

Preparing a New Generation for the Future

Programs like "Estaed" and role models such as one of Dubai Metro's first Emirati leaders not only provide inspiration but also offer a concrete example of how individual determination, supported training, and proper mentoring can break through previously closed doors.

Dubai and the UAE economy's greatest strengths lie in the openness to continuous development, which manifests not only in infrastructure but also in human capital development. Initiatives that support the professional advancement of local youth not only uplift individuals but also strengthen the competitiveness of an entire society.

The message is clear: the future does not wait. Those who recognize this and are willing to learn and grow will be able to shape it—from a Nol card counter to the Dubai Metro control room.

(The article is based on metro and Emirati career stories.)