Etihad Airways Sends Emirati Airport Trainees Abroad for the First Time

Etihad Airways has launched its first-ever international summer deployment program for its highest-performing Emirati airport trainees, marking a new milestone in the airline's Emiratisation strategy. Announced on July 3, 2026, the program gives UAE Nationals real operational responsibility at some of Etihad's busiest overseas stations during the peak summer travel season.

Who's taking part

An inaugural cohort of seven Emiratis has been selected for the deployment, chosen after successfully completing the foundation phase of Etihad's Airports and Ground Operations Programmes. This first group represents the starting point for what Etihad intends to build into an ongoing pipeline of Emirati aviation talent moving into international roles.

Where they're being deployed

The trainees are joining teams at four of Etihad's busiest international stations: Copenhagen, Paris, Phuket, and Kuala Lumpur. These destinations were deliberately chosen for their high passenger volumes during the summer travel rush, giving trainees exposure to demanding, high-traffic operational environments rather than quieter routes.

How the program is structured

The Airports and Ground Operations Programmes begin with a shared foundation phase centered on hands-on training at Etihad's hub, Zayed International Airport, paired with structured classroom learning. During this phase, trainees rotate through key frontline functions, including check-in, boarding, transfer services, baggage operations, and arrivals, before progressing into airport supervisory roles. Participants also gain exposure to network operations and aircraft dispatch, building a well-rounded understanding of how a global airline and airport actually run. Only after completing this foundation phase do trainees become eligible for the new international summer deployment, where they apply everything they've learned in live operational settings alongside Etihad's international airport teams.

Why Etihad is investing in this now

Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, said Emirati talent sits at the heart of the airline's long-term growth strategy, noting that since launching its Emiratisation strategy the previous year, Etihad has invested in programs combining world-class operational training with meaningful international exposure. Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer, added that every seamless journey begins on the ground, and that the Airport Programmes are preparing the next generation of Emirati professionals to deliver safe, efficient, and world-class airport operations. He noted that during these international assignments, young Emiratis also serve as informal ambassadors for the UAE, reflecting the country's professionalism and hospitality on a global stage.

Part of a larger talent pipeline

Etihad says Emiratis who have progressed through similar training pathways in the past now oversee operations across East Asia, Europe, the GCC, and North Africa. The airline frames this inaugural summer deployment as the next step in preparing a new generation of Emirati talent for global assignments, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading international aviation hub. UAE Nationals interested in aviation careers can find more information and apply through Etihad's official airport programme portal.