We are committed to helping young leaders in Abu Dhabi fulfill their potential.
Hear what our participants have to say about the Qiyada program.
The program
The program, conducted from January to December 2025, will include the following:
Forums
Leadership-training forums led by distinguished experts to improve your ability to progress as a leader
Coaching
One-on-one coaching sessions with professional coaches to support the creation of your personal learning journey
Team building
Networking and team-building exercises to encourage long-term collaboration among participants
Leadership assessment
A 360-degree leadership assessment to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses
DISC Assessment
A personality tool designed to help you understand how you and others perceive the world and make decisions
Case Studies
Virtual project discussions, with case studies and panel discussions with expert advisors on translative discussions about Abu Dhabi

Why leaders shouldn't be afraid to be vulnerable
February 4, 2021- Abu Dhabi
February 4, 2021- Abu Dhabi
Dr Shamma Hamdoon Al Naqbi, Program Chair - Rabdan Academy, shares a personal journey of leadership, and finds that balance, especially in one's self, is key.
“I remember when I was accepted into McKinsey’s Qiyada emerging leaders program – a one-year immersive leadership journey for early-stage professionals. I thought to myself, prepare. Prepare for rigour, for reading, for analytics and for a framework driven approach to leadership”.
Program Details
Qiyada is for leaders with:
- a passion for driving and shaping the future of Abu Dhabi
- a desire to be inspired to make a difference
- a commitment to self-development and the development of others
- an interest in networking with others interested in the future of Abu Dhabi
Participants will walk away with:
- a deeper self-awareness and clarity of purpose
- an expertise in managing one’s energy and the reactions of others
- an ability to lead through influence and inspiration
- an increase in effectiveness when facing complex challenges and decisions
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Article - McKinsey Quarterly
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