Dubai, 22 February 2017:  Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the largest Islamic bank in the UAE, received the Human Resources Development Award during its recent participation at the 19th edition of the National Career Exhibition at the Sharjah Expo Centre. 

Held under the patronage of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah and with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Emirates Institute for Banking & Financial Studies, the National Career Exhibition which took place from 15-17th February, focused on guiding Emirati youth towards the right career choices by showcasing a variety of companies and industries over the course of the three days. 

Commenting on receiving the award, Obaid Al Shamsi, Chief of Human Resources and Administration at Dubai Islamic Bank, said: “We are honored to be receiving this prestigious award from His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. Emiratisation has always been a key part of the Bank’s long-term strategy and we will continue to focus our efforts in nurturing and developing young local talent. The HR department at DIB has a number of industry leading programmes in place that aim to develop and retain Emirati talent. New employees receive world-class training and development through the Emirati programme, which is a six month course comprising of both theoretical and practical training. These HR initiatives combined with our commitment to supporting the government’s vision positions DIB as one a key training ground for employment and development of the national workforce.”

He added: “Participating in the National Career Exhibition in Sharjah is a top priority for DIB as we are deeply committed to attracting the best local talent. In 2016, our Emiratisation ratio reached 44%, close to half of our total employees. Our commitment to attract, retain and develop our Emirati talent is also aligned with the UAE’s National Agenda 2021, which is to increase the number of Emiratis working in the public and private sector by tenfold.”

Dubai Islamic Bank is one of the key players in the banking industry responsible for empowering the youth of the UAE and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment for nationals within the Bank. DIB was presented with the Award by His Highness as part of the exhibition in recognition of its efforts towards supporting Emiratisation which has been a key element of the Bank’s philosophy. DIB’s HR initiatives include several Emirati specific programs such as the Masaar Program, Talaam Program, Emarati Program and High Potential Employee Program to support the development of the local community.