The Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, operating under Dubai Chambers, launched the second edition of the Dubai Family Business Management Programme in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development earlier this year, the centre reported. The initiative targets second-tier management in Dubai-based family enterprises to develop leadership capabilities and support effective succession planning for long-term continuity. It additionally explores avenues for these businesses to expand their role in the national economy by fostering enhanced public-private sector collaboration.
Leadership workshops form a key pillar of the Dubai Family Business Management Programme and serve to strengthen public-private partnerships, according to programme documentation from Dubai Chambers. These sessions deliver targeted training in governance structures, strategic decision-making and family-specific leadership dynamics. The format encourages direct engagement between private sector participants and public authorities to identify shared priorities and practical cooperation mechanisms.
Ministry of Economy figures show that family businesses contribute around 60 percent of the UAE’s GDP and more than 80 percent of total employment across the country. A KPMG International review of family enterprises placed nearly 60 percent of the UAE’s family businesses in Dubai, highlighting the emirate’s outsized influence on this economic segment. The programme addresses common succession hurdles that could otherwise disrupt this contribution in the coming decades.
The Dubai Centre for Family Businesses has partnered with globally recognised educational bodies to deliver the programme curriculum, its overview of training activities stated. Participants receive exposure to international case studies and proven methodologies for sustaining family ownership across generations. This component complements local workshops by broadening perspectives on innovation, risk management and market expansion strategies.
Dubai Chambers data indicates the centre maintains ongoing coordination with both public regulators and private stakeholders to refine the regulatory framework supporting family firms. The second edition incorporates lessons from the inaugural programme to improve relevance and participant outcomes. Future iterations are slated to incorporate additional modules on sustainable practices and technology integration within family business operations.
The Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development contributed to the programme’s design with an emphasis on practical leadership tools suited to Dubai’s business environment, a joint announcement from the partners noted. Eligible candidates include rising executives from established family companies who demonstrate commitment to generational transition. Completion of the course provides graduates with frameworks to reinforce governance standards and drive measured expansion in their respective organisations.
