Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches has marked its first anniversary, celebrating a year of significant growth, innovation, and commitment to hospitality education in the UAE. Since its launch, the Academy has made remarkable strides in shaping the future of tourism education while empowering local talent to excel in a competitive global industry.
A Vision Realized
Founded through a partnership between Les Roches Global Hospitality Education and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Academy was established with a clear vision. Its goal is to provide world-class hospitality education while supporting the growth and professional development of Emirati youth. The Academy blends Swiss hospitality traditions with Emirati culture to offer students an immersive learning experience that is both unique and practical.
The mission of the Academy is to cultivate leaders and professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s growing hospitality and tourism sectors. By focusing on international standards of education and integrating local cultural values, the institution aims to produce graduates who are prepared for global opportunities while remaining deeply connected to their heritage.
Academic Excellence and Accreditation
In its first year, the Academy achieved notable academic milestones. It secured accreditation from several reputable bodies, including the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), the UAE Ministry of Education’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), and the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). These accreditations highlight the Academy’s dedication to maintaining high educational standards and delivering quality programs for its students.
The Academy offers a range of academic programs designed to meet the diverse needs of students interested in hospitality management. It provides both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in International Hospitality Management. In September 2025, it introduced a new Master of Science in International Hospitality Management, a one-year full-time or 18-month part-time program aimed at university graduates and career changers seeking advanced leadership, operational, and strategic expertise. This program combines Swiss-rooted education with hands-on learning, preparing students to take on leadership roles in the hospitality and luxury tourism sectors.
Student Growth and Emirati Representation
The Academy has seen impressive growth in its student population over its first year. Starting with just 18 students in September 2024, it expanded to 124 students by September 2025. This rapid growth demonstrates the increasing demand for high-quality hospitality education in the UAE.
A notable feature of this growth is the strong representation of Emirati students. Emiratis now account for 41% of the student population, surpassing national targets and reflecting the Academy’s commitment to nurturing local talent. Moreover, Emiratis make up 18% of the teaching and administrative staff, reinforcing the Academy’s dedication to creating career opportunities for local professionals. This focus on inclusivity and national development underscores the institution’s role in advancing both education and employment for Emirati youth.
Industry Partnerships and Real-World Exposure
Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches recognizes the importance of industry connections for student success. In October 2024, it announced a collaboration with Rotana, a leading hotel management company in the MENAT region. This partnership aims to develop local talent for the UAE’s hospitality industry by providing students with practical training, internship opportunities, and potential employment within Rotana’s prestigious hotels across the country.
These partnerships enable students to gain valuable real-world exposure and apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. By collaborating with established industry leaders, the Academy ensures that its curriculum is aligned with current market needs, helping graduates to seamlessly transition into professional roles. Such initiatives demonstrate the institution’s commitment to producing highly skilled hospitality professionals who are ready to contribute to the UAE’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The Academy is located in Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi, and features modern facilities that support an enriched learning environment. The campus includes contemporary classrooms, a cafeteria that doubles as a barista and mocktail lab, and dedicated spaces for practical training. These facilities are designed to simulate real-world hospitality environments, giving students hands-on experience as part of their education.
Additionally, the Academy offers off-campus accommodation options in collaboration with Rotana. Students can choose from standard rooms, suites, and studio apartments, all equipped with gym and pool facilities, housekeeping, and laundry services. These living arrangements provide a comfortable and convenient environment, allowing students to focus on their studies while enjoying modern amenities.
Focus on Experiential Learning
Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches emphasizes experiential learning as a core component of its programs. Students participate in practical workshops, internships, and industry visits, gaining firsthand experience in hotel operations, guest services, and event management. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that graduates leave the Academy with a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry.
The combination of academic rigor and practical exposure equips students with the skills needed to excel in leadership positions within hotels, resorts, and luxury tourism establishments. By integrating experiential learning into the curriculum, the Academy helps students develop problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and a customer-centric mindset—qualities essential for success in hospitality management.
Promoting Cultural Integration and Diversity
The Academy places strong emphasis on promoting cultural integration and diversity within its student body and staff. By blending Swiss hospitality principles with Emirati culture, the institution creates an inclusive learning environment that respects and celebrates different backgrounds. This approach not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students to operate in a multicultural industry.
Furthermore, the Academy’s focus on Emirati participation aligns with national initiatives to enhance local workforce development. By fostering a learning environment that values diversity and cultural awareness, the Academy prepares graduates to work effectively in both regional and international hospitality contexts.
Looking Ahead
As Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches enters its second year, the institution remains committed to expanding its programs and further enhancing its reputation in hospitality education. Plans are underway to introduce new academic offerings, strengthen industry partnerships, and deepen the integration of Emirati culture into the curriculum.
With a strong foundation built in its first year, the Academy is well-positioned to continue its journey of excellence and innovation. By maintaining high standards of education, promoting experiential learning, and empowering local talent, it aims to shape the future of hospitality education in the UAE and beyond.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches has made a remarkable impact in its first year, demonstrating growth, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in hospitality education. Its success in achieving accreditation, expanding student enrollment, and fostering Emirati representation underscores its role as a leading institution in the UAE.
By combining Swiss hospitality traditions with local cultural values and providing real-world exposure through industry partnerships, the Academy prepares graduates to meet the challenges of a dynamic and global hospitality industry. As it looks to the future, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches continues to drive innovation and excellence, shaping the next generation of leaders in hospitality and tourism education.
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