Frequently Asked Questions

Discover answers to 16 frequently asked questions about the Al Jadaara Leadership Development Program

Program Overview

Creating a merit and excellence-driven leadership development ecosystem, enhancing institutional and societal growth, while ensuring a sustainable and resilient talent pipeline that drives Abu Dhabi government strategic priorities.

The program offers a practical and unique journey that builds leadership skills (strategic foresight, media training, etc.) and technical skills (finance, policy-making, artificial intelligence, etc.), expands global and local perspectives, and drives real-world impact.

You will engage in dynamic experiential learning, international exposure, and strategic projects designed to transform insight into action, while fostering innovation, resilience, and long-term growth. This includes, but is not limited to, immersive classroom sessions, self-directed learning, simulations, international journey, and a customized development plan, all designed to inspire lasting growth and impact.

The program includes 12 months of active learning, followed by ongoing alumni opportunities. You are expected to remain in your role, with a significant part-time commitment to the program. This may include work after hours and two full-time weeks throughout the entire year.

Details will be communicated and coordinated with your relevant entity to ensure their support for your availability and growth.

Major session dates will be fixed and shared in advance with you and your entity to support planning and participation. At the same time, self-directed components offer flexibility; the rest of the program follows a structured calendar.

The program is primarily delivered in-person to maximize engagement and impact. Certain components, such as self-directed learning and individual coaching sessions, will be delivered online to provide flexibility and complement the in-person experience.

In-person sessions will be held in Abu Dhabi, with most sessions taking place at the Department of Government Enablement headquarters. Certain sessions will be hosted at partner venues across Abu Dhabi.

The program integrates five thematic pillars:

  • Abu Dhabi Government Ecosystem
  • Problem Solving and Analytics
  • Personal Growth
  • Collaboration and Enablement
  • Shaping the Future

A detailed overview of program modules will be shared with selected participants.

Personal Journey

Each participant follows a customized development journey through an Individual Development Plan (IDP). Guided by coaching and mentoring, the IDP aligns with your strengths, growth areas, and leadership aspirations. It ensures continuous learning, measured progress, and strategic impact aligned with Abu Dhabi's vision.
Yes, selected participants will be required to complete pre-program materials and assessments before the program begins. Details will be communicated directly with those accepted into the cohort.
You will be evaluated at every step based on, but not limited to, feedback from coaches and program delivery partners, engagement with mentors and peers, timely completion of self-directed learning, adherence to IDP schedule, and performance in simulations and special projects.
The program represents a lasting commitment to you and the government. We aim to support you every step of the way through an active alumni community, regular refresher courses, and opportunities for medium-term rotation across government entities. You may also have the opportunity to lead sessions in future cohorts, mentor future participants, and participate in train-the-trainer sessions.

Eligibility

UAE nationals working in Abu Dhabi government with a performance rating of 4 or 5 and a record of impactful contributions.

Specific eligibility for the cohort:

  • Executive Management: Must hold Executive Director level or equivalent.
  • Middle Management: Must hold Department Head (Grade 2) or Manager (Grade 1) level or equivalent.
  • Entry Level Group: Must hold entry-level roles or be recent university graduates.
Yes, the Al Jadaara Leadership Development Program is highly competitive, with a rigorous selection process ensuring the highest merit candidates are selected. Participation is limited to ensure a high-quality, impactful experience for each cohort. The final number of participants will be determined after the selection process is complete.

Al Jadaara Leadership Development Program participants are ambitious, future-focused thinkers who embody Abu Dhabi's leadership ecosystem values and actively contribute to its development through the following core traits:

  • Values-Based Leadership: Prioritizing integrity, accountability, and leadership to enable others, while demonstrating emotional intelligence and resilience.
  • Strategic and Adaptive Thinking: Aligning daily decisions with long-term goals, adapting to challenges, and balancing vision with execution to create sustainable impact.
  • Adaptability and Innovation: Supporting creative solutions, embracing a growth mindset, and thriving in complex, fast-changing environments.
  • Collaborative and Human-Centered Approach:Building strong networks across sectors, effectively engaging stakeholders, and fostering an inclusive and supportive leadership culture.
  • Excellence in Execution and Future Readiness:Delivering meaningful results, driving cross-sector partnerships, and gaining high-level exposure to shape Abu Dhabi's future.
Applications for the Middle Management 2025 cohort are now closed. Stay tuned for final application deadlines for upcoming cohorts, which will be announced through our website and official social media channels.

Selection Process

After receiving nominations for the Middle Management cohort (Managers and Department Heads), candidates go through a 3-step selection process as follows:

  • Stage 1: Online Assessments – Cognitive skills, situational judgment, and personality tests
  • Stage 2: Online Interviews – Competency-based interview with a panel of experts
  • Stage 3: In-Person Interview – Interview with a high-level panel

After each step, candidates will receive an email updating them on their application status. If a candidate progresses through all stages of the selection process, they will receive an email with the final decision.

Stay tuned for selection process details for upcoming cohorts.

Contact Information

You can reach us at aljadaara@dge.gov.ae for any questions or inquiries.