Dubai Business Associates Opens Applications For 2026 Global Program
DUBAI, UAE — November 5, 2025 — The Dubai Business Associates (DBA) program has officially opened applications for its twelfth annual cohort, continuing its mission to train and empower exceptional young graduates from around the world. The fully funded nine-month program provides participants with world-class business education, consulting experience, and exposure to Dubai’s dynamic global economy.
Operated under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the program is regarded as one of the world’s most competitive graduate training initiatives, accepting less than 0.5% of applicants each year.
Empowering Global Graduates Through Real-World Learning
Each year, participants receive intensive training in strategy consulting, finance, leadership, and data analytics. They also benefit from professional coaching, cross-cultural exchange, and networking opportunities with global leaders.
DBA partners with PwC’s Academy, Capadev, and Bon Education to deliver a curriculum that combines academic rigour with practical consulting experience. Associates work directly on high-impact projects for major Dubai institutions, including Emirates Airlines, Dubai Economy and Tourism, and DP World.
Building Skills For A Changing Global Market
“The DBA program attracts exceptional talent from every continent,” said Rami Tawfiq, Director of Dubai Business Associates. “Our graduates share a passion for innovation and a commitment to driving progress in both business and society. The skills they gain in Dubai prepare them to lead in a fast-changing world.”
Since its founding, DBA has trained 313 alumni from 53 countries, including 56 UAE nationals. Participants have completed 92 consulting projects for more than 30 organisations, generating over $23 million in business value.
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Global Appeal And Competitive Selection
The program’s prestige continues to rise. The most recent cohort was selected from 6,660 applicants across 146 countries, with only 26 participants admitted. The diverse group reflects Dubai’s position as a hub of innovation, commerce, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Surkhel Yousafzai, a DBA graduate from the Class of 2022, praised the program’s impact: “DBA gave me the confidence and global perspective to excel. Working with leading companies in Dubai showed me what innovation looks like in practice.”
Applications Now Open For 2026
Applications for the next intake are open until March 1, 2026, with the program scheduled to begin in September 2026.
Eligible applicants must hold a recent bachelor’s degree, have no more than three years of work experience, and demonstrate leadership potential, curiosity, and strong communication skills. Fluency in English is required.
Successful candidates will join a diverse international cohort and gain first-hand experience in one of the world’s most future-focused cities.
Shaping The Next Generation Of Global Leaders
By combining academic excellence with real-world consulting experience, the Dubai Business Associates program continues to cultivate future leaders ready to make a difference across industries and borders.
The initiative reinforces Dubai’s commitment to education, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, empowering young professionals to become catalysts for change in the global economy.
