Dubai – 01 July 2026
The inaugural cohort of the NextGen Leadership Programme has graduated, marking a significant milestone in preparing the next generation of family enterprise leaders amid growing demand for structured leadership development across the region.
The milestone reflects the growing need to prepare the next generation of family business leaders as enterprises across the UAE and the wider region undergo a significant generational transition. With younger family members taking on increasing responsibilities in governance, entrepreneurship, investment strategy and the stewardship of family wealth, the demand for structured leadership development and governance education continues to grow.
The exclusive, invitation only programmed brought together emerging leaders from large, multi-generational family enterprises, equipping them with the knowledge, governance expertise and practical experience needed to lead family businesses through future generations.
Launched during the UAE’s Year of the Family, the seven-day programme was delivered in collaboration with leading institutional partners PwC, Al Tamimi & Company, and UBS. Its curriculum was designed to strengthen leadership capabilities, succession planning, governance structures and decision-making while providing participants with practical exposure to wealth management, legal and corporate frameworks, investment strategy, tax structuring and portfolio construction.
His Excellency Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, said:
“Family businesses are deeply integrated into the economy and serve as key growth engines across the UAE and the wider region. As many enter critical phases of generational transition, nurturing the next line of leadership is essential for ensuring business continuity and long-term prosperity.
The DIFC Family Wealth Centre responds to growing demand for structured education, leadership development, governance fluency, and practical exposure to wealth, legal, corporate and investment matters. This initiative further reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for family wealth stewardship, governance excellence and long-term capital.”
