Abu Dhabi is rapidly becoming a global hub for luxury experiences, driving the need for skilled professionals in the culinary and hospitality sectors. To address this demand, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT – Abu Dhabi) has partnered with leading international institutions to establish top-tier educational facilities in the capital.

One of the notable additions is the Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, launched by the renowned chef Alain Ducasse, who holds 21 Michelin stars, at the Cultural Foundation in Al Hosn last December. Additionally, Le Cordon Bleu, a prestigious culinary school, is set to open its first UAE campus on Saadiyat Island in 2025.

In September, the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, in partnership with Les Roches Global Hospitality Management Education, will open in Zayed Sports City. Ranked fifth globally in hospitality and leisure management by the QS World University Rankings, Les Roches aims to fill the talent gap in the luxury sector.

Carlos Diez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches, emphasized the importance of these educational initiatives, stating, “As the country transforms into a hub for luxury experiences, the demand for skilled and innovative professionals is at an all-time high.”

The hospitality industry in Abu Dhabi has seen exponential growth, with the number of hotel guests increasing by 27% and international visitors by 54% last year, contributing approximately Dh49 billion to the UAE’s GDP. As the market is expected to grow from $7.37 billion in 2024 to $9.46 billion by 2029, the need for qualified talent is more pressing than ever.

Industry leaders highlight the importance of not only teaching fundamental skills but also fostering a global outlook in students. Afshan Jivraj, a key figure in a new project at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, noted, “Prioritizing experiential learning and nurturing creativity will prove pivotal in shaping the careers of aspiring professionals.”

Chef Francisco Araya, director of the International Centre for Culinary Arts, Abu Dhabi, echoed this sentiment, pointing out that their center has been successfully training local talents for roles as entrepreneurs, bloggers, and head chefs. “We have trained plenty of locals happily working in the industry. So, I have big hopes for the next 10 years for this country,” Araya said.

These institutions offer a range of programs, including short-term courses, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, with a focus on Emirati-centric courses to cultivate a wealth of home-grown talent.