The Future Leaders Challenge (FLC) finals 2026 concluded in Dubai, bringing together hospitality and tourism students, educators, industry leaders and public sector stakeholders for an international gathering focused on the future of talent and human capital development in the sector.
Held from 9 to 12 February 2026 aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2, the finals took place with His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, serving as the Global Patron of the Future Leaders Challenge. The event reflected Dubai’s continued commitment to strengthening collaboration between education, industry and public institutions to advance future ready talent.
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), and Global Patron of the Future Leaders Challenge said:
“Developing skilled, future-ready talent is central to Dubai’s long-term vision and a core pillar of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which is further consolidating Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure. By strengthening the link between education and industry, we are creating meaningful pathways for young talent to contribute to Dubai’s hospitality and tourism sectors. This collaboration empowers young people to turn ideas into action, shaping the future of global hospitality and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a world-leading hub for creativity and innovation.”
Student Teams and Educators Recognised for Excellence
Over the course of the finals, teams presented their work, engaged with senior industry and public sector leaders, and exchanged perspectives on leadership, employability and future workforce needs. The overall winner of the Student Challenge was team Co:Creators, comprising Sofia Perotti from Glion University, El Hassane Ibnou El Kadi from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ghita Bahbouhi from ISIIT Morocco, and Phindile Mthiyane from University of Pretoria, who were recognised for the relevance, feasibility and potential impact of their proposed solution.
Special awards were presented during the Celebration Dinner. The Teacher of the Year Award was awarded to Bianca Frost, from the University of Pretoria, recognising outstanding dedication to education and leadership in student development. The J.J. Sleiffer Award, The Most Hospitable, honouring individuals who exemplify the human values at the heart of hospitality, was presented to Juliet Finn Alexander, from Stenden South Africa. Hubert Ummels, Founder of the Future Leaders Challenge said,
“At this moment, there is a clear opportunity to bring education, industry and institutions closer together. The finals in Dubai demonstrated the ambition and capability of the next generation, and this momentum allows us to build through long-term collaboration and shared responsibility for future talent.”
Strengthening Collaboration Between Education and Industry
Beyond the student challenge, the finals also served as a convening moment for hospitality and tourism education leaders from across the Middle East and Africa, enabling dialogue on curriculum relevance, leadership development and workforce alignment in close connection with industry and public sector stakeholders.
The Future Leaders Platform is supported by an international Advisory Board comprising senior leaders from across hospitality, tourism, education and the public sector. Advisory Board members include representatives from NEOM, Radisson Hotel Group, Hilton, Dubai World Trade Centre, Kerzner International, Gauteng Tourism Authority, Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, Accor, and Rotana Hotel Management Corporation. The Advisory Board provides strategic guidance and supports alignment between education, industry and public institutions to address real world workforce and leadership challenges.
Future Editions to Expand Global Reach and Industry Engagement
Following the Dubai Finals, upcoming editions of the Future Leaders Challenge will take place in the United Kingdom, Morocco, East Africa and South Africa, as the platform continues to expand its international reach.
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Further Reading:
- Sheikh Mohammed Announces AI as Mandatory Subject in UAE Schools
- Sheikh Hamdan Approves First Dubai Student Council to Empower Youth to Shape the Future of Education