Dubai: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Business Associates (DBA) celebrated the graduation of its 11th cohort, furthering its mission to develop the next generation of global leaders. Held at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, the graduation ceremony recognised the achievements of 37 Associates representing 21 countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the cohort comprised 12 Emirati and 25 international Associates, bringing together talent from around the world, including Colombia, France, India, Peru, Russia, Slovakia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The diversity of the cohort reflects Dubai's standing as a global hub for talent, innovation, and leadership development.
Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director-General of H.H. The Dubai Ruler's Court, stated, 'Dubai Business Associates embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to reinforce Dubai's position as a global hub for talent, innovation, and opportunity. Through programmes such as DBA, Dubai continues to invest in Emirati and international talent, equipping future leaders with the skills, experience, and global perspective needed to contribute effectively to the future economy."
He added, 'The programme's sustained growth and increasing international demand reflect global confidence in Dubai's position as a leading destination for developing future leaders and attracting exceptional talent. It also underscores the emirate's long-term commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and fostering the values of excellence, resilience, collaboration, and innovation, helping prepare talent capable of leading transformation and creating a positive and lasting impact within their communities and organisations around the world.'
DBA is a unique, fully funded nine-month programme for outstanding university graduates, combining academic learning with hands-on consulting experience across public and private sector organisations in Dubai. Associates take part in professional placements, consulting projects, and leadership development programmes, gaining exposure to Dubai's business environment and cultural landscape.
Leading organisations across Dubai hosted Associates in more than 20 placements throughout the programme, providing exposure to sectors and strategic priorities, including digital transformation, sustainability, venture capital, retail, hospitality, tourism, and finance.
The 11th cohort delivered eight consulting projects for government and private entities in Dubai, including the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Emirates Group, Digital Dubai, Dubai International Financial Centre, and Kerzner International. Despite a challenging global environment, Associates demonstrated resilience and professionalism, delivering strategic recommendations and innovative solutions.
Since its launch, DBA has welcomed 349 Associates from 56 countries and delivered 100 consulting projects in collaboration with organisations across Dubai. Over the past 11 years, the programme has supported the development of 68 Emirati graduates, reflecting its commitment to nurturing national talent within a globally connected learning environment.
The programme's educational partners, including PwC, CAPADEV, and Bon Education, provide training across leadership, strategy, business, and professional development.
During the ceremony, Associates were recognised for achievement in leadership, collaboration, academic excellence, and community contribution. Reem Lari from the UAE received the Emirati Award for academic, professional, and community leadership, while Tom-Louis Flohrer from Germany was presented with the Falcon Award for leadership potential and embodiment of the programme's values.
Michael Banks from the United States received the Faculty Award for academic excellence and professionalism. Angelica Wilina from Indonesia was named Best Fellow for her collaborative spirit and contribution to the cohort, while Viktoria Zbojanova from Slovakia received the Erin Langlards Award for empathy, professionalism, and commitment to improvement.
Graduates expressed appreciation for the programme, noting it had broadened their professional and personal horizons through strategic projects and engagement with business leaders. They said the programme had strengthened their leadership and consulting capabilities while providing valuable practical experience and knowledge across fields.
Applications for DBA's 12th cohort, commencing in September 2026, attracted more than 14,284 applicants from 148 countries, more than doubling the number received the previous year and reinforcing the programme's growing international reputation as a competitive graduate development programme.
