Expo City Dubai launches two-year graduate programme for Emirati talent

Expo City Dubai has launched a new graduate development programme for UAE Nationals, aimed at building future leaders in real estate and sustainable urban development.

The Exposure programme, introduced by Expo City Dubai’s Real Estate and Development division, is a tailored, two-year initiative designed for fresh Emirati graduates. It is intended to equip participants with practical experience, technical skills and leadership capabilities across the full real estate value chain.

The programme supports Expo City’s role as a master developer and aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the D33 Economic Agenda, both of which prioritise sustainable growth, innovation and the integration of Emirati talent into the workforce. Expo City said the initiative would help bridge the gap between academic study and professional leadership, while contributing to the UAE’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.

Open to UAE Nationals who have graduated within the past two years, the programme targets candidates from disciplines including urban planning, engineering and business. Participants will rotate through multiple functions during the first year, including design and development, project delivery, sales and marketing, programme controls and procurement. In the second year, graduates will specialise in a specific function based on performance, interest and business requirements.

Selected candidates will work directly on Expo City Dubai’s master plan, gaining exposure to city-scale developments and receiving mentorship from senior leaders within the Real Estate and Development team. On completion of the programme, successful graduates will be considered for fast-track progression into key roles within the division.

Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer at Expo City Dubai, said: “As master developer, Expo City Dubai is committed to creating smart, sustainable, resilient communities while contributing to the UAE’s continued prosperity. This new initiative harnesses the potential of the next generation of Emirati talent by immersing them in every facet of the real estate process and empowering them with the skills to shape sustainable urban development.”

Marjan Faraidooni, Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai, said: “The Exposure programme reflects our commitment to cultivating the skills and confidence of young Emiratis. It offers talent the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in shaping a sustainable, tech-enabled, human-centric city.”

Applications for the programme opened on 10 December, with successful candidates joining Expo City Dubai on a two-year temporary contract. The initiative builds on the organisation’s existing talent development efforts, including the Changemakers Academy and its Return to Work programme, which support innovation, entrepreneurship and workforce participation.

Expo City Dubai said the programme would help secure a future-ready pipeline of Emirati talent as the city continues to expand its residential, hospitality and mixed-use developments.