Dubai:H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, attended the graduation ceremony of the third cohort of the Dubai Family Business Management Programme. The event was organised by the Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development (MBRCLD). This cohort included 27 second-tier leaders from family businesses.
According to Emirates News Agency, the graduation was part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Forum, an annual gathering of 1,000 leaders from Dubai's government and private sectors. The forum aims to explore future management and leadership strategies and promote the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to enhance Dubai's status as a hub of excellence and innovation.
The programme is designed to develop the skills of second-tier family business leaders to ensure continuity and effective management succession. It also aims to educate family businesses on best practices, build networks with local and international leaders, and promote social responsibility.
Sheikh Ahmed highlighted the importance of family businesses in Dubai's economy, noting their contribution to the emirate's prosperity and global economic standing. Family businesses represent about 90% of private companies in the UAE, contributing 40% of the GDP and employing over 70% of the workforce.
Participants in the programme engaged in a comprehensive training schedule, including virtual sessions and individual mentoring, to develop skills for leadership transitions. The programme also featured educational experiences at the SDA Bocconi School of Management and visits to Italian family businesses like Lavazza, Mapei, and Brembo.
The curriculum covered governance, wealth management, succession planning, sustainable investment, and conflict resolution, aiming to equip participants with the knowledge to lead family businesses effectively. The programme also encourages collaboration between the government and private sectors to support Dubai's economic development.