Hala, Dubai’s e-hailing taxi service, has introduced its Youth Ambassador Program, a new initiative aimed at providing university students with direct, hands-on experience in the tech industry. The program is designed to develop future business leaders and strengthen the company’s connection to the local community.
Quick Facts
- Six-month pilot program for 20-25 students.
- Partnership with AI-powered platform +twe.
- First cohort from eight different UAE universities.
Beyond the Internship Model
Developed in partnership with +twe, an AI-powered early-career platform, the Hala Youth Ambassador Program moves away from the structure of traditional internships. The six-month pilot will involve 20 to 25 students from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, giving them direct responsibility within Hala’s operations.
Ambassadors will focus on peer-to-peer engagement by developing their own campaigns, leading initiatives on their university campuses, and representing the brand within their communities. The program offers exposure to key business areas, including marketing, content creation, analytics, finance, and project management. Participants will also benefit from job shadowing, workshops, and mentoring opportunities.
Bridging the Education-to-Employment Gap
The initiative aims to address the common gap between academic learning and the skills required in the professional world. The first cohort is already active, with nine students selected from over 150 applicants. They represent a diverse group from eight universities, including the University of Wollongong in Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, and Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
Khaled Nuseibeh, CEO of Hala, explained the program’s strategic importance. “We recognise that the next phase of mobility will be shaped by a generation that is more connected, more intuitive and closer to these changes than anyone else. Through this program, our aim is to create a space for young people to contribute to that journey in a meaningful way, providing them with hands-on experience that goes beyond the textbook.”
Osama Damati, Co-Founder and CEO of +twe, added, “Through our partnership with Hala, we are creating opportunities for students to step into live business environments, take on real responsibilities, and develop skills that are directly relevant to today’s evolving job market. This program reflects our shared commitment to empowering young talent.”
A Student-Led Approach in Action
Participants will gain practical experience and build a professional portfolio. By the end of the six months, they will receive a certification to help them transition into the workforce.
Prisha, a Hala Ambassador and student at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, shared her experience. “Being part of this program goes beyond learning, it offers a seat at the table where the future of mobility is being shaped. One of the highlights has been us leading a campaign end-to-end, from initial concepts through to production and final delivery. Seeing our ideas come to life in a real-world setting has been incredibly empowering.”
About Hala
Hala is a Dubai-based e-hailing taxi solution born and bred in the city. The service aims to provide a convenient and accessible transportation option for residents and visitors, connecting users with a fleet of taxis through its digital platform.
Source: Zawya
