Abu Dhabi Terminals Launches Training Program for UAE Nationals

Al Khayyal training program trains UAE Nationals for operational roles at Khalifa Port Container Terminal

Abu Dhabi, UAE, August 2, 2016:  Abu Dhabi Terminals (ADT), manager and operator of Khalifa Port Container Terminal (KPCT) – the region’s first semi-automated container terminal – launched its new training program aimed for UAE Nationals with high school diploma. The program, called Al Khayyal which means horse rider in Arabic, prepares young Emiratis for operational roles at Khalifa Port. Due to the company’s strong commitment to Emiratisation, a new batch of students is expected to start every month. 

ADT’s new Emiratisation program recruits and develops UAE National employees through a dedicated in-house training program that equipsnew joiners with the skills and expertise needed to work in the UAE ports sector. The two-month training program has been designed especially for UAE Nationals and trains them to become skilled operators for quay cranes and container handling equipment; both critical positions at Khalifa Port.  Upon completion of the training the new graduates will start their role at the forefront of the maritime industry.

“As a young and modern organization driven by excellence, ADT offers exciting careers in the innovative UAE maritime sector and our professional team includes industry-leading experts with decades of experience working for major port authorities and global terminal operators,” said Eisa Hasan Al Marzouqi, Senior HR Directorof Abu Dhabi Terminals. “Today’s semi-automated facility means that ADT is among the most high-tech companies in the UAE and our aim is to inspire UAE Nationals to consider a career in the maritime sector and understand the role the industry plays in the future growth of the Emirate.” 

“With horse riding being a big passion for me, I was immediately interested to join Al Khayyal training program. The challenge of learning how to operate these port equipments and handle containers really makes me feel that my job is close to my hobby. I look forward to complete the program.” said Mohammed Al Hosani, a 29 year old trainee.

ADT’s success in the ports sector includes tripling container volumes in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi while increasing the shipping network from 5 to 60+ direct destinations since the transition of Zayed Port to the state-of-the-art Khalifa Port in 2012. ADT’s latest success came when KPCT was named the world’s 2nd fastest growing container port in the world based on its 2015 volume, which was 32% up from the 2014 result.