BLOG: The NEP Experience

Welcoming 25 New Experts to the NEP Community

NEP proudly launched its fourth cohort, welcoming 25 Emirati sector experts to an intensive 12-month journey of development, under the guidance of 25 mentors. Developed under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the National Experts Program is a launchpad for Emirati experts who strive to play a leading role in the transformation of future-growth sectors aligned with the UAE’s national priorities. Underpinned by the values of His Highness and built upon five mindsets for lifelong learning, NEP’s rigorous program combines academics, immersive work experience, and mentoring by top government and business leaders. NEP cultivates sector expertise in its participants—a select cohort of ambitious, experienced professionals who will help shape the country’s future.

H.E. Ahmed T. Al Shamsi, NEP Program Director, welcomed the new cohort with opening remarks. “The fourth batch is extraordinary in its achievements; including 24% PhD holders, and 76% Master’s degree holders,” Al Shamsi highlighted, noting the gender balance of the cohort, composed of 13 women and 12 men. He also shared that the new cohort was chosen from a highly competitive pool of approximately 1,200 applicants, representing 25 strategic sectors, from economic and social development to sustainability and infrastructure.

Guided by Visionary Leadership

Building on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as custodian of NEP, provides strategic oversight to further its mission. His forward-looking guidance ensures NEP continues to train Emirati experts who align with the UAE’s priorities and contribute to the nation’s enduring prosperity.

In the press release announcing the new cohort, His Highness Sheikh Theyab emphasized the critical role of experts in the UAE’s journey toward sustainable progress:
“Experts are the nucleus of progress, and their specialist skills play a pivotal role in building a bright future for the UAE. Through these, knowledge, innovation, science and inventions flourish, leading to the nation’s development in various fields, especially those that involve meeting challenges and transforming them into opportunities for the purpose of sustainable progress.”

A Transformative Journey Awaits

With a curriculum designed to translate national priorities into sustainable achievements, NEP 4.0 participants will engage in rigorous training and mentorship, aimed at elevating their expertise and impact. As NEP continues to grow, each edition brings us closer to a future where national talent and strategic knowledge drive the UAE's global competitiveness.

Join us in celebrating the launch of NEP 4.0! Click here to watch highlights from the launch day and meet the members of this exceptional cohort.