News DeskDubai, UAE – Keolis MHI Rail Management and Operations LLC, the esteemed operator of Dubai Metro and Tram, proudly celebrated its achievement of winning the prestigious Nafis Award for the second consecutive year. The award, presented by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC), underscores the company’s commitment to excellence and Emiratization.
Hamad Al Shehhi, a Senior Controller at the Operations Control Centre (OCC) of Keolis MHI, secured second place in the Specialized Jobs category, standing out among over 5,000 applicants. This individual accolade not only highlights Hamad’s dedication but also reflects the company’s robust culture of nurturing talent.
Keolis MHI’s success in the Nafis Award signifies its unwavering dedication to Emiratization, aligning with the UAE government’s objective of bolstering Emirati talent competitiveness in the private sector. In 2023, the company promoted 41 Emiratis, with an additional 24 promotions in 2024. Notably, 56% of Keolis MHI’s Emirati workforce comprises women, with 21% occupying senior roles.
Amal Abdullateef, Chief People Officer at Keolis MHI, expressed pride in the company’s role in developing UAE national experts in the rail sector. “We are honored to contribute to the UAE vision. Our company has the largest Certified Training Center in Rail accreditation. Additionally, we offer various internal programs to enhance the skills and careers of our Emirati employees, including high-potential programs and leadership development.”
Looking ahead, Amal announced plans to collaborate with educational institutes and government authorities to offer focused programs and internship opportunities for both students and fresh graduates.
Athari Mohamed, Executive Director of Human Resources and Development, Corporate Administrative Support Service at the RTA, emphasized the importance of investing in national talents for prosperity and sustainable development. “The Rail Agency will continue supporting Emiratisation plans, a priority for the RTA in Dubai,” she said. Athari commended Keolis MHI for their efforts in creating job opportunities for UAE nationals and enhancing cooperation between the RTA and global partners.
Athari highlighted that Keolis MHI’s victory in the Nafis Award reflects RTA’s dedication to increasing the participation and representation of UAE Nationals in the job market. “Emiratisation is a key pillar of the RTA’s strategy, aiming to qualify UAE Nationals, provide them with necessary skills and knowledge, and enable their effective participation in various initiatives and projects. This aligns with the strategic directions of Dubai to build human capital capable of contributing effectively to the national economy,” she added.
Athari further indicated that RTA is committed to enhancing cooperation with the private sector to create a stimulating environment for companies, develop national cadres, nationalize specialized jobs, and open new opportunities for citizens in various fields within the private sector.
Keolis MHI remains steadfast in its commitment to hiring UAE nationals and nurturing the next generation of Emirati talent in the rail sector.
