Shaping the future of
talent in Abu Dhabi
Government

Build the next generation of leadership: develop, attract, and grow the leaders of tomorrow through a rigorous, meritocracy-based, and impact-driven development journey for top talent to advance Abu Dhabi’s priorities

This program offers a unique platform for growth and recognition as a high-potential leader.

• On the program, you will:
  LEARN: Expand your hard skills (e.g., finance, policy-making, economics, etc) and soft skills (e.g., self-awareness, strategic foresight, communication and media training, etc) and refine your leadership style to deliver impactful results including investing in yourself, unleashing talent, and imagining new futures for Abu Dhabi
• ENGAGE: Learn how to navigate the Abu Dhabi Government ecosystem and form a lifelong network of peers. Gain exposure to top leaders within Abu Dhabi and beyond.
• APPLY: Build real-world problem-solving experience through real “government-wide” and “organization-led” projects.

The program is a 12-month active learning experience followed by ongoing community opportunities. You should expect to spend about a quarter of your time on program activities during these first 12 months.

This program is a long-term commitment to yourself and the Government. This program is designed to ensure participants continue engaging and giving back after the first 12 months of active learning. Our most committed participants will have the chance to continue their leadership journey through advanced programs, reflecting the mutual long-term commitment central to this initiative.

You should plan to commit to the program while still remaining a high-performing manager (requiring after-hours or weekend effort) with approximately 25% commitment to the program during the first year incl. a two-week full commitment to the program done twice a year.

The program requires a significant part-time commitment, with participants expected to dedicate approximately one-third of their time each month on average.

The program timeline, including specific session dates, is currently being finalized. We will share the detailed calendar with entities well in advance to ensure smooth participation and planning. The dates will be set for the monthly sessions. Only the self-paced modules will be flexible.

The program will primarily be conducted in person to ensure maximum engagement and impact. However, there will be online components, including self-paced learning modules, to allow for flexibility and complement face-to-face sessions.

The in-person sessions will be held in Abu Dhabi. Most sessions will take place at our premises within the Department of Government Enablement, with additional sessions hosted at various venues across Abu Dhabi. We are in the process of finalizing locations in coordination with academic partners and international speakers.

You will learn and apply new skills in a range of ways designed to maximize your development. Here’s what you’ll be doing in the program:

• LEARN
• Classes and self-paced learning
• Individual development plan
• Coaching sessions
• Peer learning groups

• ENGAGE
• Experiences and special events
• Community engagement
• International visits
• Mentorship with leadership

• APPLY
• Special projects
• Short-term rotations

The program is structured around key thematic areas that align with leadership development priorities:

• Abu Dhabi Government System
• Problem Solving & Analytics
• Personal Growth
• Collaboration & Empowerment
• Shaping the Future

A detailed breakdown of sub-modules will be shared in due course. For now, please refer to the attached brochure for an overview of the program structure.

Yes, selected participants will be required to complete pre-course materials and assessments prior to the start of the program. Details will be communicated directly to those who are admitted to the cohort.

Participants will be evaluated using, but not limited to, feedback from faculty of in-person labs, timely completion of self-paced learning, abidance by IDP schedule, feedback from mentors and coaches, results of simulations and special projects.

This program represents a lasting commitment to both yourself and the Government. We will aim to support you every step of the way through an active alumni community, regular refresher courses, and opportunities for medium-term rotations within government entities. You may also have the chance to mentor future cohorts and participate in train-the-trainer sessions, allowing you to lead some modules yourself for upcoming participants.

UAE Nationals working within Abu Dhabi Government, holding the grade of Section Head (Grade 2) or Director (Grade 1) or equivalent.

Yes, future iterations will also include programs dedicated to Junior talent (2-4 years of experience) and Executive Directors.

Yes, the Al Jaddaara Program is a highly competitive and selective program. Participation is capped to ensure a high-quality, impactful experience for each cohort. The final number of participants will be determined following the selection process.

Participants will be selected based on, do they:

• Embody Abu Dhabi government values
• Exhibit leadership potential
• Embrace a start-up mindset and drives innovation
• Demonstrate strategic & analytical thinking
• Challenge the status-quo and is result-oriented
• Show drive and resilience
• Collaborate effectively and builds strong relationships

You should submit your nomination no later than 10 January 2025. In case nomination eligibility criteria apply to you, you will receive an email detailing next steps shortly after the deadline.

After nominations from target cohort (Directors and Section Heads) are received, candidates will go through a 2-step selection process incl:

• Step 1 (Cognitive skills, Situational Judgement and Personality tests)
• Step 2 in case successful in step 1 (Behavioral interview with a senior panel)

After each step, you will receive an email updating you on the status of your application. If you progress through all stages of the selection process, you will receive an email with the final decision by the end of March 2025.

You can reach us at AlJadaara@dge.gov.ae for any questions or inquiries

Please also refer to our program brochure for more information.