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
ODU RT

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
Security & Policing Rectangle

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
First Jupiter HC2 enters service in the UK

Aerospace

First Jupiter HC2 enters service in the UK

8 January 2026

The Joint Aviation Command (JAC) has officially welcomed the Jupiter HC2 into service, marking a significant milestone in modernising the UK’s rotary wing capability.

MTC accelerates strategic vision with non-exec appointments

Aerospace

MTC accelerates strategic vision with non-exec appointments

7 January 2026

The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has appointed Natascha Engel, Professor Paul Monks CB and Professor Rachel O’Reilly MBE as non-executive directors to its board, strengthening its commitment to deliver the UK’s industrial strategy and drive innovation in advanced manufacturing.

Norton Rose Fulbright expands global aviation offering

Aerospace

Norton Rose Fulbright expands global aviation offering

7 January 2026

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has further strengthened its global aviation practice with the appointment of aviation finance partner Leo Fattorini as its Head of Aircraft Finance, Asia and the Middle East, based in Singapore.

IFS to acquire Softeon

Aerospace Defence Security

IFS to acquire Softeon

6 January 2026

IFS today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Softeon, a provider of cloud-native Warehouse Management, Warehouse Execution and Distributed Order Management solutions.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Luton Airport and University of Beds sign AI partnership

Aerospace

Luton Airport and University of Beds sign AI partnership

6 January 2026

London Luton Airport (LLA) and the University of Bedfordshire have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration.

STARLUX takes delivery of first Airbus A350-1000

Aerospace

STARLUX takes delivery of first Airbus A350-1000

6 January 2026

STARLUX Airlines of Taiwan has taken delivery of its first of 18 A350-1000s, becoming the 11th global operator of the largest version of the A350.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Advertisement
General Atomics LB