Adnec concludes first phase of training and orientation program for Emiratis at Excel London

The program was designed to enable the Adnec Junior Managers to gain practical experience from Excel London's business discipline and operations, and allow them to implement what they have learned in fields such as project management and venue logistics and operations upon their return to Adnec.

Adnec sent executives from its Venue and Operations, Client Liasion and Security departments, to its London-based events venue as part of ongoing initiatives to accelerate the professional development of Adnec's workforce. The Adnec executives were introduced to Excel London, worked on various projects with their Excel London counterparts, and trained in their host's business disciplines.

Humaid Al Dhaheri, Director of Finance and Human Resources, Adnec, said:

"This pioneering initiative reflects the vision of H.E Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Adnec, to educate, train and employ UAE Nationals in different business sectors. We intend to engage in unique Emirati development strategies that not only meet our corporate needs but complement the goals of the Abu Dhabi Government as well. The positive feedback from Excel London and from the participants has motivated us to invest in additional orientation programs and similar activities in the future."

"Our Adnec colleagues were able to quickly absorb the core elements of our operations and strategies. We were impressed by the professionalism, aptitude and passion shown by these managers, and we benefitted as well from their excellent know-how and skills in events management," added Kevin Murphy, Chief Executive of Excel London.

Adnec acquired Excel London, the UK's top events venue, in a Dhs2.3bn deal in 2008, advancing its goal of creating a global network of exhibition centres. Currently operating a 55,000-square metre events facility in the UAE capital, the largest and most modern in the Middle East, Adnec aims to become the world's leading exhibition venue developer.

Excel London has hosted more than 1,500 events and has welcomed around four million visitors since 2000. The venue is part of a 100-acre campus located in London's Royal Docks, within easy reach of the central district. Its impressive events portfolio includes the London 2012 Olympics.