NMDC people and culture event

NMDC PEOPLE &
CULTURE

We are defined by a strong and cohesive company culture. We strive to cultivate a working environment where everyone can thrive.

National Talent & Emiratization Enablement

EMIRATIZATION RATE (NMDC GROUP)

8.7%

2023

EMIRATIZATION RATE (NMDC GROUP)

10.2%

2024

EMIRATIZATION RATE (NMDC GROUP)

9.7%

2025

Emiratization and Local Hiring

NMDC Group continues to play an active role in advancing Emiratization by prioritizing the recruitment, development, and retention of UAE Nationals across its operations. This commitment reflects the Group's dedication to contributing to the UAE's broader socio-economic vision and building a sustainable pipeline of national talent. Through structured programs and partnerships, NMDC empowers Emirati professionals to develop the skills and leadership capabilities required to shape the nation's future.

Beyond the UAE, NMDC extends this approach to other countries where it operates, ensuring that local recruitment practices support community development and economic inclusion across its footprint.

To further strengthen Emirati representation and enhance career development opportunities for UAE Nationals, NMDC Group has implemented several dedicated initiatives:

Masar programm for UAE nationals

A structured, career-stage-based leadership journey designed to accelerate the growth of UAE Nationals, equipping them with the competencies to take on key roles within the organization.

Masar programm for UAE nationals

TAMKEEN

For fresh graduates and entry-level employees, focused on employability skills, growth mindset, NMDC values, and career basics

Designed for fresh graduates and entry-level employees, this program focuses on developing employability skills, fostering a growth mindset, instilling NMDC core values, and equipping participants with foundational tools for career progression.

Cohort 1:24 graduates, Cohort 2:26 graduates, Cohort 3:28 graduates, Cohort 4:28 graduates

SHABAB

For fresh graduates and entry-level employees, focused on employability skills, growth mindset, NMDC values, and career basics

Targeted at early-career professionals and diploma graduates, Shabab emphasizes continuous learning, personal growth, and professional skill development, while nurturing corporate values and a productive, engaged workforce.

Cohort 1:24 graduates, Cohort 2:26 graduates

Tatweer

For fresh graduates and entry-level employees, focused on employability skills, growth mindset, NMDC values, and career basics

Aimed at mid-career employees with 3-5 years' tenure, Tatweer develops management and leadership skills, enhances team engagement, strengthens decision-making capabilities, and prepares participants for higher responsibilities.

Cohort 1:24 graduates, Cohort 2:26 graduates

Qiyada

For fresh graduates and entry-level employees, focused on employability skills, growth mindset, NMDC values, and career basics

Focused on future leaders such as team leaders and supervisors, Qiyada builds advanced leadership skills, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management capabilities, preparing participants for greater responsibilities through practical applications and coaching.

Cohort 1:24 graduates, Cohort 2:26 graduates

Riyada

For fresh graduates and entry-level employees, focused on employability skills, growth mindset, NMDC values, and career basics

Designed for directors and senior executives, Riyada strengthens executive leadership, strategic decision-making, organizational influence, and customer-centric growth, supporting effective leadership at the highest levels of the organization.

Cohort 1:24 graduates, Cohort 2:26 graduates

Mahara Fresh Graduate
Development Program

The Mahara Program stands as NMDC Group's flagship national talent development initiative, designed to empower UAE and KSA nationals and support both nations' nationalization and sustainability agendas. Rooted in NMDC's commitment to developing future leaders, Mahara provides a structured learning and development pathway that integrates real-world experience, professional mentoring, and continuous capability-building opportunities.

Mahara Fresh Graduate Development Program

Mahara Fresh Graduate Development Program

The Mahara Program stands as NMDC Group's flagship national talent development initiative, designed to empower UAE and KSA nationals and support both nations' nationalization and sustainability agendas. Rooted in NMDC's commitment to developing future leaders, Mahara provides a structured learning and development pathway that integrates real-world experience, professional mentoring, and continuous capability-building opportunities.

To date, 407 participants have successfully graduated from the Mahara program, with 315 graduates currently active across NMDC's business units in the UAE and KSA. Many of these graduates have progressed into key technical, operational, and leadership positions, contributing directly to NMDC's strategic objectives and fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and inclusion.

Women Empowerment Initiatives (Yard) - 29 UAE Nationals

The Women Empowerment initiatives within the Yard focus on creating inclusive opportunities that support the development, visibility, and progression of women in operational environments. Through targeted programs, mentorship, and awareness sessions, the initiative enhances confidence, strengthens leadership capabilities, and promotes equal participation across all levels.

This initiative contributes to fostering a more inclusive culture while supporting the organization's commitment to diversity, equity, and sustainable workforce development.

Leadership and Communication Development - The Hive Toastmasters (10 UAE Nationals)

The Hive Toastmasters is a corporate initiative that strengthens leadership and communication capabilities across NMDC Group. Through structured meetings, prepared speeches, and constructive evaluations, employees develop confidence, public speaking skills, and leadership presence in a supportive environment.

EMIRATIZATION RATE (NMDC GROUP)

8.7%

2023

EMIRATIZATION RATE (NMDC GROUP)

10.2%

2024

EMIRATIZATION RATE (NMDC GROUP)

9.7%

2025

NMDC leadership event audience

NMDC leadership event audience