Eithra Emiratisation program graduates 1,200 as Central Bank expands national talent pipeline
Eithra Emiratisation program celebrated the graduation of 1,200 Emirati trainees, reinforcing efforts to build national capacity in the UAE financial sector.
The Eithra Emiratisation program marked a major milestone as 1,200 Emirati men and women graduated at a ceremony held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event, presided over by Central Bank Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama, highlighted the programme’s role in developing skilled national talent for the UAE financial sector. Since its launch in 2022, Eithra has now trained 4,750 citizens through specialised courses and professional qualifications, strengthening the Emiratisation agenda.
Royal patronage and institutional leadership
The graduation ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and chaired by Khaled Mohamed Balama in his capacity as Governor of the Central Bank and Chairman of the Emirates Institute of Finance. Officials described the patronage as a key endorsement of national talent development within the financial ecosystem. The high-profile support aims to catalyse private and public sector recruitment of newly qualified Emiratis.
Central Bank and Emirates Institute of Finance representatives outlined the strategic importance of the cohort, noting that the trained graduates will enter roles across banking, investment and financial services. The ceremony underscored the state’s continued prioritisation of skill development as part of broader economic and social objectives.
Scale and outcomes since 2022 launch
Program directors announced that Eithra has qualified 4,750 Emirati trainees since its inception in 2022, using targeted pathways to meet labour-market needs. The cumulative intake reflects a sustained effort to build a pipeline of professionals capable of supporting the country’s financial ambitions. Organisers presented data showing increased placement rates into licensed financial institutions following completion of the programme.
Officials said the programme’s scale is being matched by quality, with internationally accredited training modules and partnerships with global academic and professional bodies. The dual aim is to boost immediate employability while equipping candidates with credentials recognised across international markets.
Recognition of top performers and inclusion efforts
At the event, 27 top-performing graduates were honoured for academic and professional excellence, receiving awards that acknowledged their achievements during the training cycle. The recognition aims to encourage continued high performance and to spotlight role models for Emirati youth considering careers in finance. Organisers described the awards as part of a broader merit-based approach to talent development.
In a parallel inclusion effort, 60 persons of determination were also celebrated for completing tailored training programmes conducted in collaboration with the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination. Officials emphasized that inclusive training is integral to the programme’s mandate and to ensuring diverse participation across the financial sector workforce.
Curriculum priorities and specialised tracks
Eithra’s curriculum covers core banking operations, investment management, risk management and financial technology, combining classroom instruction with practical placements. The programme includes globally recognised professional certifications and advanced specialist streams to prepare candidates for evolving sector demands. Training modules are delivered in partnership with leading academic and certification bodies to align skills with international standards.
Specialised tracks within Eithra include financial risk management, a technology leadership pathway, and the Exitra programme, designed to develop sector-ready competencies in digital finance. Programme leaders said these tracks were selected to respond to rapid technological change and to equip Emirati professionals to assume leadership roles in tomorrow’s financial landscape.
Strategic partnerships to accelerate national hiring
During the ceremony several memoranda of understanding were signed to expand Eithra’s reach and accelerate Emiratisation targets. The Emirates Institute of Finance concluded an agreement with Takamul to broaden workplace training opportunities, and partnered with the Government Empowerment Department to train 2,000 citizens in Al Ain over the next two years. These collaborations are expected to increase regional access to specialised training and to boost local hiring pipelines.
The Central Bank also announced a three‑year strategic partnership with the Emirates Council for Balanced Development to support national employment across the country. In addition, a cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism will launch two targeted programmes: one for fresh graduates and another aimed at mid-career professionals. Officials said the combined initiatives are designed to ensure a steady flow of qualified Emirati candidates into licensed financial firms.
Officials’ remarks and strategic ambitions
Khaled Mohamed Balama hailed the results of the Eithra Emiratisation program as evidence of the Central Bank’s strategy to empower national talent and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global financial centre. He called on graduates to apply their newly acquired skills in service of the country’s development priorities and to help drive innovation across the sector. The governor praised the cooperation of licensed financial institutions in absorbing graduates as a demonstration of public-private collaboration.
Marwan Al Mehairi, Chief Executive of the Emirates Institute of Finance, said Eithra has become a national model for Emiratisation by combining rigorous training with access to professional qualifications. He reiterated the institute’s commitment to expanding pathways for Emiratis and to working with industry partners to ensure sustained career progression for programme alumni.
The Eithra Emiratisation program’s newest cohort and the accompanying partnerships signal a continued national push to place Emiratis at the centre of the country’s financial transformation. Graduates are expected to begin placements across banks, investment firms and fintech companies in the coming months, reinforcing the programme’s role as a cornerstone of the UAE’s talent and economic strategy.
