Etihad sends top Emirati airport trainees abroad in first global summer deployment
Seven participants to gain hands-on experience across busy overseas stations
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways has introduced its first international summer deployment programme for high-performing Emirati airport trainees, marking a new milestone in its Emiratisation strategy.
The initiative gives UAE Nationals the opportunity to gain hands-on operational experience at some of the airline’s busiest international stations after completing the foundation phase of its Airports and Ground Operations Programmes. The programme is designed to strengthen practical skills while preparing participants for long-term careers across Etihad’s expanding global network.
The Airports and Ground Operations Programmes begin with a shared foundation phase centred on operational training at Etihad’s award-winning hub, Zayed International Airport. The practical learning is complemented by structured classroom sessions, ensuring trainees develop both technical knowledge and real-world operational experience before progressing into supervisory positions.
Hands-on training
During the foundation phase, participants rotate through a range of frontline airport functions, including check-in, boarding, transfer services, baggage operations and arrivals. They also gain exposure to network operations and aircraft dispatch, providing a comprehensive understanding of airline and airport operations while preparing them for leadership roles within the organisation.
Following the successful completion of this stage, the inaugural group of seven Emirati trainees has begun international summer assignments at Etihad stations in Copenhagen, Paris, Phuket and Kuala Lumpur. These destinations were selected because of their high passenger volumes during the busy summer travel season.
Working alongside Etihad’s international airport teams, the trainees will apply the knowledge and skills gained in Abu Dhabi within live operational environments, taking on responsibilities that expose them to different operational practices and customer service standards across the airline’s global network.
Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, said Emirati talent remains central to the airline’s long-term growth strategy. She noted that, since launching its Emiratisation strategy last year, Etihad has invested in programmes that combine world-class operational training with meaningful international exposure, helping participants develop the skills, confidence and global perspective needed to succeed in the aviation industry.
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations & Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the importance of airport operations in delivering every passenger journey. He said the Airport Programmes are preparing the next generation of Emirati professionals to support safe, efficient and world-class airport operations through practical experience across the airline’s international network.
He added that the overseas assignments enable trainees to exchange knowledge with international colleagues while gaining valuable experience in diverse operational and cultural environments. According to Al Marzouqi, the participants also serve as ambassadors for the UAE, reflecting the professionalism, hospitality and values associated with both Etihad and the nation.
Career pathways
The Airports and Ground Operations Programmes form a key part of Etihad’s broader Emiratisation strategy, creating long-term career opportunities for UAE Nationals while supporting the airline’s continued operational expansion. Emiratis who have completed similar development pathways are now overseeing operations across East Asia, Europe, the GCC and North Africa, with the new international summer deployment representing the latest step in preparing future aviation professionals for global assignments.
As Etihad continues to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading international aviation hub, the airline says the programmes will play an increasingly important role in developing the next generation of Emirati talent. UAE Nationals interested in aviation and airport operations are encouraged to apply for the programme, which offers professional training, international experience and opportunities to represent the UAE across Etihad’s global network.