Dubai Business Associates Program 2026 (Fully Funded, 9 Months in Dubai)

Applications are now open for the Dubai Business Associates (DBA) Program 2026, a fully funded 9-month professional development program in Dubai for talented graduates and early-career professionals from around the world.

The program is designed to bridge the gap between higher education and the professional world, offering participants the opportunity to study, gain hands-on experience, and work closely with leading organizations based in Dubai.

The Dubai Business Associates Program operates under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. There is no application fee, and all major costs are fully covered.

Dubai Business Associates Program 2026 – Key Details

Host Country: United Arab Emirates
City: Dubai
Program Duration: 9 Months
Program Type: Professional Development & Consulting
Funding: Fully Funded
Application Deadline: April 1, 2026

Financial Benefits

The Dubai Business Associates Program 2026 is fully funded, covering:

Accommodation in Dubai
Round-trip airfare
Visa sponsorship and support
Monthly living stipend

Participants can focus entirely on learning and professional growth without financial burden.

Number of Available Seats

Each cohort typically includes 30–40 associates, making the program highly competitive and selective.

Program Overview

The DBA Program offers a unique blend of learning, consulting, and professional exposure:

Hands-On Learning

Participants work on real consulting projects, gaining practical experience and industry-relevant skills.

Access to Industry Leaders

Associates attend exclusive masterclasses led by CEOs, senior executives, and global experts.

Career-Focused Skill Development

Specialized training sessions are designed to strengthen leadership, problem-solving, and workplace readiness.

Personal & Professional Support

Each participant is matched with:

A career coach for professional guidance
A life coach for personal development and wellbeing

Cultural & Global Exposure

The program includes cultural activities, group excursions, and networking events, helping associates build a global perspective.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries
Education: Bachelor’s degree (all academic backgrounds accepted)
Experience: 0–3 years of professional experience
Age Preference: Typically between 23 and 27 years old
Work Experience: Full-time experience is not mandatory; internships are strongly encouraged for recent graduates

How to Apply for the Dubai Business Associates Program 2026

Applications are submitted online through the official DBA website.

Before applying, applicants are advised to: