du Partners with the Emirates Global Youth Council in the U.S. to Empower Emirati Students Through Experience X Internship Program

Five UAE nationals studying across US universities gain hands-on experience through tailored placements across du's departments

Dubai, UAE, 05 August 2026: du, the leading telecom and digital services provider, has opened its doors to UAE national students studying at universities across the United States as part of Experience X, a specialized internship program launched in partnership with the Emirates Global Youth Council in the US. In the first-ever collaboration between du and the Council, the program is running until 14 August, giving participating students hands-on experience within du's operations.

Over the course of the 4-week program, participants have been working alongside multiple du departments, developing professional competencies such as critical thinking, communication, and cross-functional collaboration, and gaining first-hand insight into how a leading digital services provider operates. Each participating student has been placed within a du team that closely aligns with their academic major, allowing them to apply classroom learning to real business challenges. This tailored approach ensures that the students gain meaningful workplace experience in the UAE and a clear pathway towards future career opportunities.

Commenting on the initiative, Fatema Al Afeefi, Chief People & Impact Officer at du, said: “Experience X is our way of ensuring our students studying abroad never lose their connection to home. By investing in these students today, we are building a resilient national talent pipeline, one that will carry the UAE's vision for innovation and digital transformation forward for decades to come. Watching the students apply their academic learning to real business challenges over the past few weeks has reaffirmed exactly why this program matters.”

Launched in Year of Family 2026, Experience X reflects du's commitment to ensuring that UAE students studying abroad maintain a strong link back to the UAE through hands-on, real-world experience. The initiative also supports the UAE's broader national vision, contributing directly to the objectives of We the UAE 2031 and the long-term ambitions of the UAE Centennial 2071, both of which place Emirati talent development at the heart of the nation's future.

As the program continues through its final weeks, Experience X remains a key part of du's broader Emiratisation strategy and long-term commitment to building a future-ready national workforce. By pioneering this collaboration, du continues to strengthen its position as an employer of choice for Emirati talent, both at home and abroad.