Dr Abdulla Karim inaugurates GATEWAY 2003

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone, GATEWAY 2003 is the first event to be held at Knowledge Village, the regional centre of excellence for international learning.

It will provide more than 250 real jobs for serious Emirati job seekers, as well as a host of career and life enhancing seminars over three days, until December 9.

Speaking to a host of dignitaries, exhibitors and delegates at the inauguration ceremony on Sunday morning, Dr Karim said: 'GATEWAY 2003 helps fulfil the vision of Knowledge Village, in creating awareness of the benefits of increased knowledge, sharing best practice and creating real sustainable opportunities by promoting a learning society.

'The future economic success of the UAE hinges on the skills and capabilities of the population. Events such as GATEWAY 2003 are the key to creating a workforce which is able to compete in the emerging knowledge-based global economy.'

As an official supporter of the event, Knowledge Village joins Dubai Institute of Human Resources Development, the Emiratisation Task Force for Tourism, the Government of Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing Department, WAFI Group, and the National Bank of Dubai.

Karen Storey, Managing Partner of X-Logic, the Knowledge Village-based organisers of the event, said: 'With His Highness' patronage and such strong support from Knowledge Village and our other high level sponsors, the event is already a guaranteed success. Judging by the queues of young Emiratis waiting to register, we are sure GATEWAY 2003 will make a real and sustainable difference to Emiratisation.'

During the three day event, which runs from 9am-6pm until Tuesday December 9, delegates will not only be able to apply for real jobs on site, but also attend life and career enhancing seminars, speeches and workshops.

The final day of the event also plays host to a major employer's event, entitled 'How Does Successful National Recruitment Work?' which aims to educate employers on how best to recruit, develop and retain nationals within the organisation.

There are limited places still available for the seminar, which costs AED650, and includes papers from Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, CEO of Dubai Institute for Human Resource Development, and Alan Schofield, Head of Human Resources, National Bank of Dubai.

For tickets, call X-Logic on +971 4 3910485