Dubai Business Associates Programme (Fully Funded Opportunity in Dubai)
The Dubai Business Associates Programme is a prestigious fully funded 9-month programme in Dubai designed for outstanding graduates who want to start a global career in business and consulting.
The programme runs under the patronage of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai.
Participants gain real work experience, advanced business training, and consulting skills while working with leading organizations in Dubai. The programme acts as a bridge between university education and professional careers.
Table of Contents
- About the Programme
- Programme Structure
- Skills You Will Learn
- Programme Timeline
- Learning and Placement Partners
- Programme Impact
- Management Team
- Why You Should Apply
About the Programme
The Dubai Business Associates Programme provides graduates with a unique opportunity to study and work in Dubai, one of the world’s fastest-growing global business hubs.
The programme uses a practical learning approach, combining:
- Academic business training
- Professional placements
- Strategy consulting projects
- Leadership development
Participants also attend masterclasses with CEOs, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs while receiving mentorship and career coaching.
The programme is managed by Falcon and Associates, an organization established in 2009 to promote Dubai globally through education, sport, and events.
Programme Structure
The programme lasts 9 months and includes three major learning phases.
| Phase | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Module 1 | 5 Weeks | Business fundamentals and core knowledge |
| Placement Immersion | 12 Weeks | Full-time placement with Dubai companies |
| Academic Module 2 | 4 Weeks | Advanced business and innovation topics |
Academic Module 1 – Business Fundamentals
Participants begin with a strong foundation in business.
Topics include:
- Orientation
- UAE history and culture
- Vision and economy of the UAE
- Commercial strategy
- Finance
- Data analysis
- Module assessment
This stage helps participants understand the regional business environment and market dynamics.
Placement Immersion
During the placement phase, participants work with companies in real consulting and business projects.
Activities include:
- Soft skills training
- Professional coaching and mentoring
- Cultural excursions
- Panel discussions with industry experts
- Fireside chats with business leaders
This stage provides hands-on experience in strategy consulting and business development.
Academic Module 2 – Innovative Thinking
The final module focuses on advanced business concepts.
Key topics include:
- Doing business in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
- Design thinking
- Business simulation
- Consulting fundamentals
- Business planning and entrepreneurship
- Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
Participants learn how to turn business ideas into real strategies and full business plans.
Skills You Will Learn
The programme develops three main skill areas.
Hard Skills
Participants gain strong knowledge in:
- Financial analysis
- Accounting and marketing metrics
- Strategy consulting tools
- Business planning and development
Soft Skills
Graduates of the programme build:
- Leadership skills
- Communication and presentation abilities
- Negotiation skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving and adaptability
Cultural Understanding
Participants live and work together in a multicultural environment, gaining deep exposure to global cultures and international business practices.
Programme Timeline
| Phase | Months |
|---|---|
| Academic Module 1 | September – October |
| Placement Immersion | October – January |
| Academic Module 2 | January – February |
This structure ensures participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience.
Learning and Placement Partners
The programme works with major organizations that provide training and placement opportunities.
Key partners include:
- PwC Academy
- CAPADEV
- Bon Education
These partners help deliver professional training and consulting projects.
Programme Impact
Over the past cohorts, the programme has achieved:
| Achievement | Number |
|---|---|
| Alumni | 111 |
| Consulting Projects | 76 |
| Nationalities Represented | 18 |
| Programme Partners | 14 |
Participants have worked on real projects for both public and private sector organizations in Dubai.
Management Team
Rami Tawfiq – Programme Director
Rami Tawfiq joined the programme in 2024 and brings over 15 years of experience in business development and strategic partnerships.
He previously worked with:
- British Council
- Thomson Reuters
He is also a certified executive coach and mentor for future leaders.
Raikhan Agumarova – Programme ManagerRaikhan Agumarova has experience working with international organizations including:
- World Health Organization
- Chevron
She works with participants to support their development and learning journey in Dubai.
Why You Should Apply
The Dubai Business Associates Programme offers several advantages:
- Fully funded international programme
- Real consulting projects with top organizations
- Work experience in Dubai
- Leadership and business training
- Networking with CEOs and industry leaders
- Global career opportunities
For graduates looking to start a career in international business, consulting, or leadership, this programme offers one of the strongest career launch opportunities in the region.
