Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) has announced the launch of the ‘Dubai Logistics Academy,’ an initiative by Dubai Customs aimed at nurturing talent and developing leadership skills in the logistics sector.
This significant step seeks to meet the current and future workforce needs of the sector through an innovative and sustainable academic approach designed to enhance operational efficiency and build capabilities.
The academy aims to strengthen the local economy, elevate Dubai's global position as a strategic hub for transport and distribution, and a vital platform for shipping services.
It also seeks to accelerate sustainable development by meeting the future requirements of global supply chains.
Keeping pace with global changes
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World Group Chairman and CEO & Chairman of the PCFC, said: “The Dubai Logistics Academy represents a transformative milestone aimed at boosting Dubai's competitiveness in the global logistics services market by developing skills in the logistics sector.
"This is part of PCFC's efforts, represented by Dubai Customs, to enhance Dubai's economic development journey and sustain the achievements made in recent years in developing logistics services, including airports, ports, shipping, and transport services.
“It also aligns with the rapid global changes in this sector, which requires numerous skilled jobs to elevate and sustain operations, ensuring economic growth and diversification according to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
“This vision is embodied in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double Dubai's economy and position it among the top three urban economies in the world.”
Futuristic vision
His Excellency Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of PCFC, emphasised that Dubai's standing in global trade has attracted leading companies in the logistics sector to the city.
The Dubai Logistics Academy reflects Dubai Customs’ commitment to supporting these companies by investing in human capital as the key driver of development plans, in line with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.
This vision places great importance on preparing talent and equipping them for the future, addressing rapid changes, and enhancing the readiness of critical sectors in the UAE.
The academy aims to disseminate scientific and technical knowledge, impart practical training, and contribute to the knowledge-based economy.
He highlighted that the ever-expanding shipping and logistics sector in Dubai, and the many specialised logistics companies that have cemented the emirate’s regional and international standing, are expected to derive significant benefits from the academy.
By supplying the sector with optimal levels of professional expertise, the academy is anticipated to attract increased foreign direct investment into the specific industry and its allied sectors, he added.
Strategic partnerships
The Dubai Logistics Academy is a transformational project aligned with Dubai Customs’ strategy to offer specialised and distinguished academic opportunities for those seeking to enhance their skills in the logistics sector.
The academy will offer a diverse range of professional programmes and scholarships covering logistics services, supply chains, and trade.
Its goal is to prepare an elite pool of talent tailored for these promising sectors that call for multi-disciplinary roles, as indicated in surveys conducted by leading universities and global research centres. The academy will also facilitate employment opportunities through strategic partnerships with private sector logistics companies.
Competitiveness boost
His Excellency Al Neyadi emphasised that the launch of the Dubai Logistics Academy highlights Dubai Customs’ sustainable approach to training and developing human capital.
The initiative supports the ‘Masar 33’ project, which has paved the way for 115 Emiratis to secure diverse roles through enrolment in specialised professional programmes and academic scholarships.
This move also serves to enhance the competitiveness and career paths of talented people in both the public and private sectors under a bold and ambitious strategy.
Through the academy, Dubai Customs aims to leverage insights and expertise from its partners in the logistics sector by offering innovative training programmes that prepare graduates for specialised roles in logistics services and empower them to take on impactful leadership positions.
H.E. Al Neyadi said; “We believe that the strength of our Customs system lies in the capabilities of our human resources. Today, we are proud to launch this academy, which will contribute to shaping the future of the logistics sector in Dubai.”
“This reflects our unwavering commitment to improving the quality of logistics services and preparing local leadership talent according to the highest global standards. We also value the spirit of cooperation and partnership with our strategic partners in achieving our shared goals.”
Read More: Aldar Signs Strategic Agreement With DP World To Develop Grade A Logistics Park In Dubai