UAE launches new programmes to train next generation of financial leaders

Dubai: The UAE's Ministry of Finance joined forces with the DIFC Academy to introduce two innovative programmes aimed at nurturing the next generation of financial leaders and advisers across government entities. According to Gulf News, the Certified Chief Finance Director Programme and Certified Financial Consultant Programme will concentrate on leadership skills, artificial intelligence, financial analysis, strategic planning, and financial advisory services.

The partnership was formalized by Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority.

The primary focus of these programmes is to enhance leadership and advisory capabilities while equipping participants with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills to facilitate strategic financial decision-making. Both initiatives will encompass modules on AI technologies and AI assistants, covering their application in analyzing intricate financial data, producing intelligent reports, automating financial procedures, and enhancing predictive forecasting.

Additionally, participants will receive training on data governance and the ethical use of emerging technologies.

Younis Haji AlKhoori, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, highlighted that this strategic collaboration with the DIFC Academy marks a significant step in enhancing leadership and advisory capabilities within the financial sector, aligning with the Ministry's vision of developing a more efficient, sustainable, and innovation-driven public financial ecosystem.

The training will be provided through various formats, including face-to-face, virtual, and hybrid sessions, enabling professionals from federal entities to balance the programmes with their current commitments. The curriculum will revolve around four core learning pillars: leadership development, artificial intelligence, financial analysis, strategic planning, and financial advisory.

DIFC Academy anticipates educating over 50,000 learners annually by 2030, as per the announcement. The UAE has also unveiled a 2027-2029 finance plan aimed at boosting government spending and Dubai aims to create 25,000 jobs in pursuit of becoming the world's first AI-native financial hub.