DIB summer programme for UAE's future banking highfliers ends first half on a high note

The first batch of 80 high school and university students competed for best trainees and projects awards, which were presented by Abdulla Al Hamli, Executive Vice President - Dubai Islamic Bank Business Services, at a closing ceremony on July 29 - just days before the next intake began their training on August 1.

This year, for the first time in its three-year history, the programme was split into two intakes. This was due to the unprecedented level of demand for places from UAE nationals keen to take up a career in banking.

More than 160 candidates were accepted for the programme. Mr Ahmed Al Sarkal, DIB's Human Resources Manager, said: "The Iktasib programme provides professional training opportunities for young UAE nationals. It allows them to develop their skills and increase their knowledge of Islamic finance and best customer services practices in banking.

"Through the Iktasib programme, the bank aims to strengthen capabilities within the domestic market while providing professional opportunities for young UAE nationals within the Islamic banking sector. The programme is an integral part of DIB's vision and solid belief in the importance of emiratizing the banking sector in the UAE. DIB is proud to have the highest percentage of local staff among the banks in the UAE."

The programme aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the organisation and operations of the bank and give them first-hand experience of the industry. So candidates are placed in operational departments such as the branches, retail, corporate banking and investment banking, marketing, call centre and central operations.

Ms Maryam Al Noaimi, Iktasib's Project Manager, said: "The programme is open to young UAE nationals with High School Diplomas. This training exposes the trainees to the bank's overall strategy and vision. We at DIB are committed to providing the highest quality of innovative Islamic financial services.

"The participants in the first intake were very enthusiastic and they really made an effort during their summer holiday. Groups of the trainees worked on projects that they then presented to the DIB senior management at the graduation ceremony. The best projects were presented with awards."