Young Emiratis blend heritage and global expertise to shape the future of hospitality

Dubai: A growing number of young Emiratis are turning their passion for hospitality into professional careers at the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, where they are learning to combine authentic Emirati values with global hospitality practices.

Students say the academy is helping them transform traditional concepts of Emirati hospitality into modern, internationally recognised experiences that can showcase the UAE’s culture and identity to visitors from around the world.

The academy’s programmes are also contributing to the development of a new generation of Emirati talent in the hospitality and tourism sector, supporting the UAE’s efforts to strengthen sustainable hospitality services and build a workforce capable of blending local heritage with international standards.

Preserving identity through hospitality

Mohammed Al Hammadi, a student at the academy, said one of the most important skills he has gained is the ability to innovate while preserving cultural identity.

He explained that his studies have helped him combine Emirati traditions and the concept of “Al Sana” — the customs and etiquette passed down through generations — with contemporary hospitality practices.

According to Al Hammadi, this approach enables Emiratis working in the hospitality sector to create unique guest experiences while helping international investors and brands adapt global concepts to the local culture.

He noted that some international developers were initially surprised by proposals to integrate Emirati culture into hospitality services, only to discover that hospitality in the UAE is deeply rooted in everyday life and social traditions.

Transforming culture into a global experience

Fatima Ahmed Al Mousawi, an internationally certified tea expert and master’s student at the academy, described her studies as a journey to transform an aspect of Emirati identity into a global hospitality experience.

She said Emirati hospitality goes beyond service delivery and reflects values of generosity, belonging and giving.

Al Mousawi explained that the combination of academic study and practical training has enabled her to develop skills that allow local culture to create a meaningful cultural and human impact on visitors.

She also highlighted the UAE’s growing role as a global leader in hospitality and tourism through its support for youth and investment in national talent.

As a result of the experience and skills she gained, Al Mousawi launched her own tea-based business project aimed at turning a local tradition into a product with international appeal.

Building skills for the future

Abdullah Al Hosani, another student at the academy, said his decision to specialise in hospitality and tourism aligns with the UAE’s increasing focus on the sector.

He believes Emiratis are uniquely positioned to represent their culture and society because local customs and values form an essential part of their identity.

Al Hosani said he chose the academy because of its international reputation and its combination of academic learning and practical industry training.

He noted that the programme helped him develop communication, marketing and persuasion skills while improving his ability to engage with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Although adapting to multilingual and multicultural environments presented initial challenges, he said the academy’s use of Arabic, English and French helped students build stronger connections and cultural understanding.

Developing future hospitality leaders

Georgette Davy, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, said the UAE has established itself as a global benchmark in hospitality, tourism and cultural development through long-term investment and strategic planning.

She noted that Abu Dhabi’s environment, which combines education, industry and talent development, was a key factor behind establishing the academy in the capital.

“We saw a real opportunity to transfer Les Roches’ global expertise to a market that is not only developing rapidly but is also committed to preserving the values and cultural identity that make hospitality in the UAE unique,” she said.

Davy added that the strong interest shown by Emirati students reflects their ambition and dedication to contribute to a sector that is becoming increasingly important to the country’s future.

She described this enthusiasm as a key factor in shaping the next generation of hospitality leaders in the UAE.