- Rapid developments on the international stage underscore the importance of equipping promising young generations with a strong understanding of modern diplomatic tools and the ability to navigate an evolving global landscape.
- The Program empowers young Emirati talent to help shape the future of diplomacy and effectively communicate the UAE’s vision, values and aspirations to the world.
- Representing the UAE on the international stage is a responsibility that calls for highly qualified national talent with the knowledge and skills to reflect the nation’s values, uphold its reputation and convey its ambitions.
- The Program goes beyond capacity-building by providing young people with practical, hands-on experience in international work environments.
Abu Dhabi, UAE, In collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Federal Youth Authority (FYA) has launched the first edition of the Leadership and International Representation Program. The Program aims to equip young Emirati talent with the knowledge and skills required to represent the UAE at regional and international forums, including United Nations committees, multilateral working groups and official delegations. It also seeks to empower participants to contribute to addressing shared global challenges and actively shape international decision-making.
The Program focuses on developing participants’ capabilities in diplomacy, negotiation, coalition-building and cross-cultural communication. It also seeks to deepen their understanding of the different dimensions of diplomatic work and strengthen their ability to engage effectively with matters of national priority. In addition, it provides them with the knowledge, skills and practical tools needed to discharge their responsibilities with confidence and competence, enabling them to contribute effectively to advancing the UAE’s foreign policy priorities and achieving its diplomatic objectives.
His Excellency Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that the launch of the Leadership and International Representation Program reflects the UAE’s commitment to investing in Emirati talent and empowering young people to shape the future of diplomatic work. It advances the UAE’s ambitions and reflects the vision of its wise leadership, which places youth development at the forefront of national priorities and entrusts young people with an active role in driving the nation’s progress and prosperity. It also prepares a new generation of young Emiratis to communicate the UAE’s vision and aspirations on the international stage and promote its values of dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding.
His Excellency explained that the Program adopts
His Excellency explained that the Program adopts an integrated training approach, combining academic learning with practical experience. Participants gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of international relations and the workings of multilateral organisations. They also strengthen their negotiation skills and ability to formulate and draft official positions through direct engagement with leading diplomats and experts, alongside practical simulations of negotiation and decision-making sessions.
The Program seeks to develop a new generation of qualified diplomatic professionals who understand the rapid changes shaping the international landscape and their implications for the economy, sustainability, technology and humanitarian action. It also equips participants with the knowledge and tools of modern diplomacy to build effective partnerships that advance the UAE’s national interests and reinforce its standing on the international stage.
His Excellency Khalid Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Federal Youth Authority, said: “The UAE has established a distinguished international standing through its enduring commitment to dialogue, cooperation and strategic partnerships. Preparing young Emiratis to build on this legacy reflects a national vision that places them at the forefront of the country’s continued progress and entrusts them with an active role in advancing its aspirations. Representing the UAE on the international stage demands a strong foundation of knowledge, advanced diplomatic skills and the ability to engage effectively across cultures and respond to evolving global developments, while upholding the nation’s values and conveying its vision and ambitions to the world.”
His Excellency Al Nuaimi added: The Leadership and International
His Excellency Al Nuaimi added: “The Leadership and International Representation Program provides a specialised pathway that advances the objectives of the National Youth Agenda 2031 by developing Emirati youth’s capabilities, expanding their international engagement and strengthening their sense of national identity. It broadens their perspectives and equips them with practical experience, preparing them to contribute effectively in international professional settings. Through opportunities to build international networks and engage with diverse cultures, the Program also enhances their ability to address issues of national priority and represent the UAE with confidence and competence in global forums and dialogue.”
The Program includes a Vocational Training in Embassies track, offering participants the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in diplomatic environments. It familiarises them with the roles and responsibilities of UAE diplomatic missions, as well as the coordination and communication processes that underpin international relations. The track is open to UAE nationals aged 18 to 24 who are in their final year of undergraduate studies or have recently graduated with honours from a university recognised in the UAE. By translating academic knowledge into practical experience, the track helps participants build the professional skills and capabilities needed to pursue careers in diplomacy and undertake international representation effectively.
The Program advances the objectives of the National Youth Agenda 2031, which seeks to expand the participation and representation of Emirati youth in international organisations and forums. It focuses on developing qualified national talent equipped with the knowledge and skills to engage effectively in international affairs, represent the UAE and contribute to addressing global challenges.
The Program also aligns with the Ministry
The Program also aligns with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ strategic objectives of advancing proactive diplomacy and deepening bilateral and multilateral partnerships. Together, these efforts support the UAE’s foreign policy priorities and reinforce its contribution to promoting peace, stability and sustainable development at the regional and international levels.
The Federal Youth Authority invites eligible young Emiratis to register for the Leadership and International Representation Program or through the Authority’s social media channels. Registration is open from today until Friday, 20 November 2026
