Abu Dhabi: Les Roches managed hospitality academy to open in 2024

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to open a new hospitality education academy in the UAE’s capital in September 2024.

The academy will be managed and guided under the stewardship of Les Roches to nurture homegrown talent in the UAE and in the region.

Founded in 1954 in Switzerland, Les Roches ranks fourth in the world’s higher education institutions for hospitality and leisure management (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023).

The academy will provide top-tier education that is authentic, uniquely Emirati, and future-forward.

Its curriculum will feature a unique and bespoke Emirati approach, practices, and values of authentic traditions. Immersive experiences in UAE hospitality will be the unifying bridge, bringing together global and local students and audiences.

The distinctive programme and methodology aim to future-proof the UAE hospitality sector by cultivating local talent with high-quality education and skills needed for the industry’s future.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said: ” In line with our vision of inspiring journeys of creativity and discovery, the new academy will play a key role in ensuring the long-term sustainable growth of the hospitality industry, propelling future generations with a keen interest to reach their full potential. Celebrating Emirati hospitality, the academy will add to our diverse ecosystem that empowers local talent and will continue to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s growth as a dynamic and sustainable hub for tourism and culture.”

Les Roches model

The renowned academy’s model of hospitality education balances theory with practice, and independent learning with strong faculty support and mentorship. This enables students to acquire personal and professional skills for immediate employment and subsequently, leadership positions in the sector.

Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches Global Hospitality,  said: “This moment marks a new chapter in the history of a country and a region that have some of the most prestigious hotels in the world, and that is futureproofing themselves by training and preparing the next generation of industry leaders that uphold the values and authenticity of Emirati hospitality. We are very honoured to be part of this unique journey and contribute to raising the talents of tomorrow for the country.”

The academy will offer a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees, combining conventional hospitality education programmes with specialised Emirati-centric courses to deliver tailored training to students.

Additionally, the curriculum includes a range of hospitality-related and practical skills certifications, across areas like hotel operations, travel, tourism, transport, and entrepreneurship.

DCT Abu Dhabi will reveal more information about the academy, its courses, and enrolment procedures will be disclosed at a later date, this multifaceted approach underscores the institution’s commitment to equipping students with a diverse skill set for success in the dynamic hospitality industry.

In recent news, DCT Abu Dhabi and Mubadala Foundation signed a partnership deal to invest Dhs50m in the emirate’s cultural industry over the next five years.

The partnership seeks to transform and elevate the city’s vast cultural landscape. Mubadala Foundation has been appointed an ‘Education & Community Partner’ of DCT Abu Dhabi across the culture sector, including the Saadiyat Cultural District and other similar sites, as part of the agreement.