Ru’ya 2026 will bring together government entities, educators and employers to help prepare Emirati talent for the changing demands of the UAE workforce.
The event will connect students, graduates, entrepreneurs and professionals with career opportunities across 23 industries. It will also provide practical learning, networking and professional development opportunities.
Ru’ya 2026 focuses on future skills and Emirati talent
Ru’ya has grown over 25 years from a careers exhibition into a platform for Emirati talent development. The event supports students, graduates and professionals at different stages of their careers.
This year, the platform will cover sectors including government, banking and finance, healthcare and education. It will also highlight emerging industries and future workforce trends.
The event is supported by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, Emirati Human Resources Development Council, Federal Youth Authority and Knowledge and Human Development Authority.
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank is the Gold Sponsor of Ru’ya 2026.
According to Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President for Sustainability and Exhibitions Management at Dubai World Trade Centre, Ru’ya now goes beyond connecting employers with jobseekers.
“Today, our role extends far beyond connecting employers with jobseekers,” Al Sharif said. She added that Ru’ya brings government, education and industry together to help Emiratis explore careers and prepare for changing labour market demands.
Employers to offer direct access to jobs
Ru’ya 2026 expects around 150 public and private sector organisations to participate. The event will give Emirati professionals an opportunity to engage directly with employers.
One of the main features will be ‘Get Hired’. The platform will allow employers to meet shortlisted Emirati candidates and conduct interviews at the event.
As a result, participants can gain direct access to career opportunities across several sectors. The initiative also creates a closer link between Emirati talent and employers.
Students to explore emerging career paths
Ru’ya 2026 will also focus on career planning before graduation. School and university students will be introduced to emerging industries, in-demand skills and different career options.
The programme aims to help young people make informed choices about education and professional development. It will also expose participants to career paths across the UAE’s changing economy.
Meanwhile, graduates can use the event to explore employment opportunities and connect with employers. Experienced professionals can also access opportunities to develop their skills and progress towards leadership roles.
Interactive programmes target future workforce skills
The event will feature programmes and challenges covering innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, STEM, media and future technologies.
Several initiatives will be delivered with partners such as the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Rubu’ Qarn, UAE Space Agency and Dubai Media Incorporated.
These programmes will give participants practical experiences in areas linked to the future workforce. They will also encourage participants to explore entrepreneurship and innovation.
A dedicated Podcast Studio will add another element to the programme. Dubai Media Incorporated will produce conversations with policymakers, employers, entrepreneurs and industry experts.
The discussions will examine future work, entrepreneurship and trends shaping the UAE economy. Content from the studio will also continue beyond the three day event.
Ru’ya supports the UAE’s Emiratisation agenda
Ru’ya 2026 will continue to support the UAE’s wider Emiratisation efforts. The platform brings government, education providers and employers together to create direct connections with Emirati talent.
Al Sharif said preparing for the future of work requires continuous learning and career development. She added that Ru’ya aims to provide opportunities that extend beyond the event itself.
Launched in 2001, Ru’ya is held annually at Dubai World Trade Centre. The platform connects Emirati talent with employers, education providers and industry leaders.
Its programme includes networking, career coaching, workshops, competitions and professional development initiatives. Together, these activities support career development and connections between Emirati jobseekers and employers.
StrongYes is the Online Media Partner for Ru’ya 2026
