Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Serco and Dubai Airports to foster Emirati talent

Aerospace

Serco and Dubai Airports to foster Emirati talent

Dubai Airports, operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International – Dubai World Central (DWC), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Serco to drive the recruitment and development of UAE nationals across key operational areas at both airports.

Image courtesy Serco

This strategic partnership aligns with the UAE’s goal of increasing Emiratisation and reinforces Dubai Airports’ commitment to achieving national targets. The agreement will provide a structured pathway for career advancement opportunities for graduate trainees, fresh graduates and experienced professionals alike, with a focus on equipping talent with the expertise to step into leadership roles within the aviation sector.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

Meshari Al Bannai, Chief People Officer at Dubai Airports, said: “Our collaboration with Serco reinforces our commitment to advancing the UAE’s strategy of cultivating a thriving Emirati workforce through strategic public-private partnerships. It creates meaningful opportunities for Emiratis to develop, lead, and shape the future of aviation. This MoU sets a benchmark for future collaborations, encouraging other partners to join us in championing Emirati talent and contributing to the UAE’s economic growth.”

Hana Abu Kharmeh, Chief Operating Officer at Serco Middle East said: “Emiratisation is integral to Serco’s purpose to Impact a Better Future, ensuring the next generation is at the forefront of innovation and leadership within the aviation sector. We have witnessed our Emirati colleagues thrive, develop and excel while working with our long-term client Dubai Airports. This partnership marks a significant step forward in our shared vision to create even more opportunities, focusing on nurturing, training, experience and development to support progression and career advancement."

Advertisement
ODU RT

The MoU signing ceremony, a significant step in public-private partnerships aimed at creating a skilled, diverse, and sustainable local workforce, was attended by Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer and Omar Binadai, Chief Technology and Infrastructure Officer from Dubai Airports; alongside senior leaders from Serco including Phil Malem, Chief Executive Officer, and David Bennett, Aviation Portfolio General Manager.

This MoU is one of a series of agreements that Dubai Airports has signed, with several others in the pipeline, all aimed at driving its Emiratisation agenda. It’s part of a wider Emiratisation strategy, which includes programmes designed to upskill and empower Emiratis, such as Future Faces, the Rising Stars Internship Programme, and the Fire Services Training Programme. Dubai Airports remains committed to accelerating national development and contributing to the country’s broader economic objectives.

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
Green aviation to get £43m boost

Aerospace

Green aviation to get £43m boost

21 January 2026

The aviation industry is set for a major boost as £43 million for green projects was announced by the UK Government today, aimed at supporting jobs and unlocking new investment.

Leonardo reduces ESG risk with Sustainalytics upgrade

Aerospace

Leonardo reduces ESG risk with Sustainalytics upgrade

21 January 2026

ESG research and ratings agency, Sustainalytics, has improved Leonardo’s ESG Risk Rating, reducing it to 22/100 from 29/100 (on a scale from zero to 100, where zero represents the best score), placing the Company third worldwide among aerospace & defence (A&D) companies.

IBA reveals 1,800 aircraft deliveries expected in 2026

Aerospace

IBA reveals 1,800 aircraft deliveries expected in 2026

21 January 2026

IBA's Chief Economist & Chief Data Officer, Dr Stuart Hatcher, has revealed his insights and predictions for the upcoming year as easing inflation, lower fuel prices and improving OEM production rates underpin a more stable outlook for airlines.

Smiths Detection delivers automated IRBS between South Korea and US

Aerospace Security

Smiths Detection delivers automated IRBS between South Korea and US

21 January 2026

Smiths Detection has enabled the launch of a fully automated International Remote Baggage Screening System (IRBS), setting a new global standard for cross-border aviation security and passenger processing between South Korea and the United States.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Newcastle Airport secures £364m refinancing package

Aerospace

Newcastle Airport secures £364m refinancing package

21 January 2026

Newcastle International Airport (NIAL) has successfully secured a new £364 million bank finance package, refinancing existing facilities and supporting its long-term growth ambitions and sustainability targets.

Base Materials develops proprietary LCA

Aerospace

Base Materials develops proprietary LCA

21 January 2026

Base Materials has developed a new proprietary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tool to calculate the carbon footprint of its full product portfolio, providing partners robust, transparent environmental data as part of their own sustainability and supply chain reporting.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Advertisement
General Atomics LB