In a significant move for the hospitality sector in the United Arab Emirates, Rotana, a leading hotel management company operating across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey (MENAT), has announced a partnership with the newly established Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches. This collaboration aims to nurture and elevate local talent, preparing students for successful careers in the thriving UAE hospitality industry.
The Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy recently welcomed its first cohort of students, marking a pivotal moment for hospitality education in the UAE and the broader region. With the tourism and hospitality sector experiencing unprecedented growth, there is an urgent need for skilled professionals to meet the industry’s demands.
Shaikha Al Nowais, Corporate Vice President of Owner Relationship Management at Rotana and a board member of the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are thrilled to join forces with Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches to foster the next generation of hospitality leaders and professionals in the UAE,” she stated. Al Nowais emphasised that the initiative aligns with Rotana’s commitment to empowering local talent and supports the sustainable development of the region’s hospitality landscape.
As part of this partnership, Rotana will serve as a key accommodation provider and offer students valuable industry insights, internships, and job placements at its esteemed properties throughout the UAE. The collaboration will also include mentorship programmes, workshops, and masterclasses led by experienced professionals from both Rotana and the Academy. Events and initiatives will be organised to engage students, promote community involvement, and celebrate the skills of emerging hospitality talent.
Georgette Davey, Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, highlighted the importance of collaboration with industry leaders. “Partnering with key industry players is crucial for us. Rotana will enhance our curriculum and provide our students with unparalleled access to real-world experience. Together, we can empower local students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to excel in the fast-paced hospitality industry,” she said.
A notable feature of this partnership is the introduction of the “Rotana scholarship”, which will cover full tuition fees for a selected student at the Academy. This year, Fatma Ibrahim has been awarded the scholarship and will pursue a four-year Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Global Hospitality Management. Her studies will include an internship at one of Rotana’s properties, providing her with practical experience and a pathway to a successful career within the group.
As Rotana and the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches work together, they are dedicated to shaping the future of the UAE’s hospitality landscape. Rotana manages a portfolio of over 100 operational and pipeline properties in MENAT and has ambitious expansion plans. Les Roches, founded in 1954 in Switzerland, aims to educate future leaders in luxury, hospitality, and tourism management, with campuses in Switzerland, Spain, the UAE, China, and a partner campus in New Delhi.
This partnership is expected to play a crucial role in bridging the skills gap in the hospitality sector, providing the necessary training and opportunities for local talent to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.