News DeskDubai, UAE – In a significant step forward in its commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), VFS Global, a global leader in visa outsourcing and passport services, has named Tariq Ahmad as its first-ever Head of Empowerment and Inclusion for the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Aligned with the UAE government’s vision to boost the employment of UAE nationals in the private sector, Tariq Ahmad will take charge of steering VFS Global’s Emiratisation strategy, policy, and procedures. His role will encompass the facilitation of skilling and employment opportunities for UAE nationals, overseeing their selection, retention, and career development within the company. This strategic effort aims to integrate UAE nationals into the VFS Global workforce, not only in the UAE but also on a global scale.
In addition to his Emiratisation responsibilities, Tariq will also concentrate on enhancing multi-cultural awareness within the organization, further strengthening VFS Global’s commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
Mr. Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of VFS Global, expressed his enthusiasm for this strategic appointment, saying, “As an organization that operates in 144 countries and serves 69 governments worldwide, diversity is at the core of our operations. Inclusion is not just a policy for us; it’s our ethos. We are thrilled to welcome Tariq to our team and look forward to the expertise and experience he will bring to help us evolve as an employer and service provider in the UAE. We are fully aligned with the UAE’s aspirations to empower its youth and drive economic development through innovation.”
Mr. Tariq Ahmad, the newly appointed Head of Empowerment and Inclusion for UAE, also shared his thoughts on his new role, stating, “I am very pleased to be joining VFS Global and am looking forward to taking VFS Global’s commitment to its people and communities to the next level. This includes focusing on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, an area of paramount importance in the company’s Sustainability mission to provide equal opportunities across communities. As we follow the wise words of His Highness the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, ‘The UAE has always been, and still is, a proponent of peace and a symbol of tolerance among people.'”
Tariq Ahmad brings extensive experience in Human Resources to his new role, having previously led Emiratisation programs, recruitment, competence development, organization design, and labor relations activities in prestigious organizations such as Emirates Airlines and Al Futtaim.
With the appointment of Tariq Ahmad as Head of Empowerment and Inclusion for UAE, VFS Global reaffirms its commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, while also actively contributing to the UAE government’s vision of maximizing opportunities for UAE nationals in the private sector.
