Etihad Airways, the UAE’s flag carrier, has announced the commencement of its inaugural career fair aimed at linking talented Emiratis with various job opportunities in the aviation sector and beyond.
This event, named Khutwaty 2025, is focused on fostering direct interaction with the Emirati community.
Participants at the Khutwaty, which translates to “my step” in Arabic, will have the chance to explore different career avenues in aviation, network with key industry figures, and experience the vibrant workplace culture that Etihad promotes.
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The career fair is scheduled for May 22 at the Yas Conference Centre in Abu Dhabi, running from 2 PM to 6 PM.
Six specialized programs
The fair will present six specialized programs aimed at creating career opportunities for Emiratis in both technical and corporate roles:
1. Cadet Pilot Program:
This is a two-year structured program that combines theoretical classroom education with practical flight training conducted in both Abu Dhabi and Spain. It is designed to equip aspiring pilots with the foundational skills and global experience essential for a successful career in aviation.
2. Cadet Technician Program:
This comprehensive development initiative aims to train participants to become licensed aircraft technicians. It includes academic coursework, GCAA module testing, and practical experience, ultimately leading to a Category A Aircraft Maintenance License qualification.
3. Airport Management Program:
This development program provides in-depth exposure to airport ground operations, both domestically and internationally. Participants will rotate through crucial operational sectors, acquiring hands-on experience and leadership capabilities. Opportunities for international assignments prepare Emiratis for supervisory positions and effective contributions to worldwide airport operations.
4. Bedayati Program:
A structured training program for recent Emirati graduates that offers practical work experience in various aviation roles. This initiative, in collaboration with national programs like NAFIS, aims to draw talented Emirati graduates, providing them industry insights and pathways to successful careers.
5. MBA Future Leader Program:
A rotational leadership initiative that gives Emirati professionals exposure to essential airline functions. Participants will collaborate with senior leaders, receive mentorship, and develop the strategic skills necessary to excel in the global aviation landscape.
6. Emerging Talent Program:
This program targets Emiratis with 1–2 years of experience, offering entry-level positions in key areas such as innovation, digital services, finance, and data analytics. With structured development pathways, it fosters skill enhancement and career advancement in progressive business sectors.
Aspiring Ambitions
“Our Journey 2030 vision includes ambitious goals—doubling our fleet size, tripling our passenger count, and adding 16 new destinations by 2025 alone. Realizing these objectives necessitates not just operational expansion; it requires outstanding personnel,” stated Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.
“The Khutwaty 2025 Career Fair is a vital component of our strategy, providing a venue to engage with aspiring Emiratis and create opportunities for meaningful careers, allowing them to make significant contributions to the UAE through its national airline,” he added.
“Through our National Talent Development Strategy, we aspire to recruit over 1,000 UAE Nationals into various roles within the organization over the next five years,” commented Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways.