New batch of ambassadors set to spread the word on Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi tourism ambassadors are ready to graduate this month.

ABU DHABI // The next class of tourism ambassadors is being trained to give the capital's visitors a better understanding of Emirati life.

The Abu Dhabi Ambassadors programme, an initiative of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), is designed to boost the sector by giving Emiratis training and guidance in promoting the country.

Fifty-seven participants from 22 organisations will this month graduate from the programme, which is completing its fifth round. New courses this time included training in event management and understanding tourists.

"We want participants to leave with an understanding of the opportunities and trends in the events industry, particularly as Abu Dhabi is now a world-class major-events destination," said Nasser al Reyami, the tourism standards director at ADTA.

"They need to better understand the rationale behind the staging of these events, the business models, budgeting and marketing that goes into delivering them."

As part of the programme, participants from public-sector organisations including the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, twofour54 and the Abu Dhabi Education Council take part in workshops, seminars and field trips centred around tourism and business.

Last month, the class visited sites in Al Ain as tourists, which was part of their training.

Abu Dhabi Ambassadors is a 10-week programme open to any Emirati older than 18 who is working in the public sector or is a university student.

After graduation, participants are expected to "acquire deep knowledge about the tourism sector and increased skills and self-confidence in dealing with Abu Dhabi visitors".