In a powerful move to elevate Emirati talent and future-proof the public sector, the Abu Dhabi Government has officially launched the Al Jadaara Leadership Development Program. This ambitious initiative is aimed at cultivating a new wave of high-performing, forward-thinking leaders within the government’s ranks.
Designed specifically for UAE nationals in mid-to-senior level positions, Al Jadaara reflects the Emirate’s deep commitment to investing in human capital as the cornerstone of sustainable development and long-term success.
What Is Al Jadaara?
Al Jadaara is a 12-month leadership journey curated for section heads and directors across Abu Dhabi government entities. The program blends global best practices with localized relevance, offering a unique learning experience that empowers participants to navigate real challenges, drive innovation, and inspire teams.
It’s more than just training—it’s a leadership transformation.
Participants will engage in a tailored, immersive curriculum combining strategic projects, mentorship, international exposure, and hands-on rotations. The structure enables leaders to stay fully engaged in their current roles while dedicating around 25% of their time to learning and development.
A Curriculum Built to Inspire
Al Jadaara isn’t built on theory alone. Its curriculum is crafted to be practical, interactive, and personally transformative. Five key pillars form the foundation of the program:
- Understanding the Government Ecosystem – Building comprehensive insight into how Abu Dhabi’s institutions operate and collaborate.
- Personal Growth – Enhancing emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-leadership.
- Problem-Solving and Analytics – Strengthening critical thinking, data literacy, and strategic foresight.
- Collaboration and Empowerment – Driving team performance, peer coaching, and stakeholder alignment.
- Shaping the Future – Empowering participants to design and lead initiatives with long-term impact.
Each module is structured to align with the Emirate’s values and strategic vision, ensuring that learning translates into meaningful results.
A Journey of Impact and Growth
One of the program’s most distinctive features is its emphasis on real-world projects. Participants won’t just learn—they’ll lead. Strategic assignments and innovation challenges drawn from live government priorities will allow participants to directly influence public outcomes.
In addition, short-term rotations and shadowing opportunities across various entities offer a panoramic view of how Abu Dhabi’s government machinery works, enabling future leaders to operate confidently across sectors.
Who Is It For?
The program targets exceptionally performing Emirati employees with a track record of achievement, integrity, and potential. Eligible candidates are typically:
- UAE nationals working in Abu Dhabi government entities
- Serving as section heads or directors (or ready to be promoted)
- Holding recent performance scores of 4 or 5
- Known for their strategic thinking, growth mindset, and leadership values
Candidates are nominated by their organizations and undergo a rigorous selection process, ensuring that only the most promising talents are chosen.
More Than a Program—A Community
Al Jadaara aims to create not just leaders, but a networked community of changemakers. The program promotes deep peer-to-peer connections through cohort learning, shared challenges, and joint innovation tasks.
Upon completion, graduates become lifelong members of the Al Jadaara Alumni Network, gaining access to continuous learning opportunities, high-level networking, and future collaborations with key stakeholders across government.
This alumni model reinforces the belief that leadership development doesn’t end after one year—it evolves throughout a lifetime of service.
A Strategic Step Forward
Al Jadaara is a bold answer to a critical need: equipping the government workforce to adapt, lead, and thrive in a world of accelerating change. It signals a shift toward strategic, personalized, and impactful leadership development—the kind needed to drive Abu Dhabi’s ambitions for the next 50 years.
By building internal capabilities and fostering collaboration across departments, the program strengthens unity, reduces silos, and cultivates a sense of shared responsibility for national progress.
Abu Dhabi’s Bigger Vision
Behind Al Jadaara is a broader vision—to position Abu Dhabi as a global leader in government innovation and excellence. That vision is built not just on technology and policy, but on people. Capable, courageous, and compassionate leaders.
The program is also a reflection of Abu Dhabi’s values: boldness, resilience, service, and legacy. By preparing leaders to carry those values forward, the government ensures continuity, agility, and long-term impact.
The Road Ahead
With the first cohort expected to begin in the second half of 2025, anticipation is high among public sector professionals. Enthusiastic response from across departments highlights just how timely—and necessary—Al Jadaara is.
Plans are already in motion to expand future intakes, making this a recurring annual milestone in Abu Dhabi’s leadership calendar.
Final Thoughts
Al Jadaara is not just a leadership program. It’s a platform for empowerment, a launchpad for innovation, and a lifeline for the values of public service.
In an era defined by complexity and constant change, Abu Dhabi is choosing to lead not only through policy or infrastructure—but through people. With Al Jadaara, the Emirate is making a clear statement: the future belongs to those who are ready to shape it.
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