With F&B facing a talent crunch globally, training the next generation of hospitality heroes is essential
According to Mordor Intelligence, the UAE foodservice market size is set to grow by 17.1 percent CAGR between 2024 and 2029, reaching an estimated US$44 billion.
That growth is especially essential in the culinary capital Dubai, which is aiming to become one of the top three cities to live, work and play in as part of its Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
Proving that catering is a key part of that ambition, the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) is launching the region’s first apprenticeship in Culinary Operations.
The innovative scheme will see students earn while they learn, and produce a pipeline of world-class talent to elevate standards not only in the emirate, but also internationally.
The scheme will begin this summer, and will prepare candidates for entry-level (Commis III) positions.
First-of-its-kind programme for the Middle East
This two-year programme will follow the Certificate 4 in Culinary Operations curriculum and include a practical work-study format delivered with industry partners including Gates Hospitality, Hilton, and JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai.
“Our goal is to develop a pipeline of skilled entry-level Commis III staff, who will work alongside some of our major industry partners, providing opportunities for talented students to learn and learn simultaneously,” said Essa Bin Hadher, General Manager, DCT.
“The apprenticeship programme aims to provide a new source of recruiting and qualifying talent for the culinary industry and also reflects our dedication to supporting the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities.
“The new programme is a ‘first’ and provides us with a template to introduce apprenticeships in other areas. The majority of study – 60 percent – will be on the job, giving students a powerful springboard for the careers ahead of them.”
The first intake will benefit from education in the fundamentals of gastronomy, business, and health and safety, as well as being mentored by industry professionals each with their own personalised approach.
Bin Hadher added that the experience gained in professional kitchens would be instrumental in creating new connections and job opportunities.
Hilton, Marriott & Gates Hospitality as partners
As one of the founding partners, Gates Hospitality views the programme as a great opportunity to keep apprentices up to date with real-time trends and challenges.
Sebastian Nohse, Senior Director of Culinary at EMEA Hilton, was keen to highlight the benefits to both the apprentices and the wider industry.
“This programme will enable our F&B operations to more easily and swiftly recruit and train new employees who bring significant local knowledge to our products and services,” he said.
Marriott International’s Area Director of Human Resources Premium and Select, Sergio Snyder, also looked on the scheme as a direct benefit to the hospitality giant, allowing them to tap directly into the local talent pool.
He said this was an opportunity to recruit staff which have already been trained in the company’s standards and processes.
DCT was established by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as a world-class vocational college that would support people to enter or advance within the tourism industry.
