Dolphin energy makes further commitment to its nationalization program

Published April 7th, 2009 - 10:38 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Dolphin energy makes further commitment to its nationalization program

Underlining its continued commitment to its Nationalization program, Dolphin Energy today unveiled plans to fast track a group of UAE National students for its Technical Program.

Eight Emiratis, all high school graduates in the Science section, have been chosen for the program. Each has already spent a period of time working at Dolphin and have now been selected to develop their qualifications while receiving invaluable work experience.

They will spend the next four years combining practical work experience while working towards a Higher Diploma and a Bachelor’s degree to complement their practical training.

Commenting on the program, Mr. Ibrahim Ahmed Al Ansari, General Manager, Dolphin Energy - UAE said: “Supporting the development of Emiratis is clearly outlined in our vision and this initiative forms part of our commitment to meet our target of 50% nationalization by 2012. The scheme ensures that each student receives a complementary blend of education and training and development. Each will be given incentives so that as they become more qualified and they will begin to take their first steps up the career ladder.”

The program is being run in conjunction with the Abu Dhabi Higher Colleges of Technology. Each student will be expected to complete the four year program and a schedule of work experience. This comprises a two month summer program as well as two six month placement programs at Dolphin Energy. In addition, each student will have to complete a 12 month assignment at Dolphin following the completion of the Higher Diploma and prior to starting their degree studies.

Outlining the importance of Dolphin Energy’s support, Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), UAE said: “By partnering with Dolphin Energy we are able to combine practical experience with a positive learning environment. We are truly thankful that Dolphin is taking part in a program that is supporting our young students. The speed with which we were able to put this program together has demonstrated their unstinting commitment. I would encourage other corporate entities to follow Dolphin’s example and consider programs of this nature.”


Dolphin has a strong track record in the development of Nationals in both the UAE and Qatar.

As part of its ongoing commitment to provide further opportunities for development, the company has been working with shareholder Total to offer MBA degree opportunities to a selection of its UAE and Qatari national employees.

In total six employees from Dolphin in both countries have undertaken or are in the process of undertaking their Masters qualification. The degree combines the provision of developing important management, business administration and decision making skills as well as technical knowledge required to progress their careers.

To complement the commitment to develop Qataris, Dolphin also recently unveiled a new five year Qatarization strategy. This has seen the establishment of a dedicated Nationalisation Section focusing on attracting Qataris to the company’s Doha and Ras Laffan operations.

The company is also participating in a State initiative, the Technical Preparation Program that is developing more than 60 Qatari high school graduates into technician and field operator roles. Dolphin is also a regular supporter of the Qatar Careers Fair which is being held in Doha on April 12-16th, an event integral to Dolphin’s commitment to Qatarization. 

Building on the importance of providing opportunities to nationals, Mr. Adel Ahmed Albuainain, General Manager – Qatar, said: “We have an obligation to provide opportunities for Nationals to join and develop a career with us. Their development is critical to our future success. Investment in our people now means that our preparations for tomorrow are built on solid foundations.”