First cohort graduates from ENEC Nuclear Technology diploma

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has proudly celebrated the inaugural graduation of its Diploma in Nuclear Technology (DNT) programme, marking a foundational milestone in the development of the United Arab Emirates’ national nuclear workforce.

This landmark event, held in Abu Dhabi on the 18th of June 2026, witnessed twenty dedicated Emirati professionals successfully complete the rigorous requirements of the diploma.These new graduates are now prepared to transition seamlessly into vital operational support roles at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in the clean energy sector.

The graduation ceremony was a distinguished affair hosted in the capital Abu Dhabi. It was attended by His Excellency Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company, alongside senior management teams from various ENEC subsidiaries. The event served to formally recognise the extraordinary achievements of this first cohort, highlighting their impending contributions to the broader UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme.

The Diploma in Nuclear Technology is structured as a twenty-four-month vocational training programme. It was designed to provide robust initial training for high-performing UAE National high school graduates pursuing long-term careers within the civil nuclear sector. The diploma is accredited by the UAE's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, underscoring its academic excellence and rigorous standards.

Delivery of the curriculum is divided across ENEC’s corporate headquarters and the operational environment of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. The coursework is led by highly qualified, certified Emirati instructors from ENEC, working in close collaboration with international experts. Together, they provide a balanced curriculum featuring theoretical education and practical, hands-on training. Trainees are thoroughly equipped with fundamental knowledge of applied sciences and complex engineering, alongside specific insights into nuclear plant systems, technical operations, and critical safety processes.

Upon completing this demanding twenty-four-month programme, the twenty graduates will step directly into professional roles as local operators and dedicated maintenance technicians. Stationed at the Barakah Plant, located in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, these technicians will form the backbone of daily operations. Their skills will directly support the safe, reliable, and highly efficient delivery of clean electricity to the national grid.

Speaking at the ceremony to commemorate this vital step in national workforce development, H.E. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of ENEC, stated: “today’s graduation marks an important milestone in our continued efforts to develop a sustainable pipeline of homegrown UAE national talent to support the long-term success of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program. As we enter the next phase of operational excellence at Barakah, investing in the development of skilled Emirati professionals remains a strategic priority. This program reflects our commitment to building national capability, equipping the next generation of our young, talented Emiratis with the expertise required to support safe, reliable and efficient nuclear operations for the next 60 years and beyond. We are proud of the achievements of this first cohort and look forward to seeing them flourish in their nuclear energy careers and contribute to the continued success of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant and the wider UAE energy sector.”

Initiated in 2024, the Diploma in Nuclear Technology stands as the premier initiative within ENEC’s suite of capacity-building programmes. Operating as a recognised national vocational qualification, the diploma plays a key role in developing meticulous UAE nuclear professionals. This foresight ensures the long-term sustainability, safety, and operational excellence of the UAE Nuclear Energy Programme. ENEC has confirmed that further cohorts will be trained over the coming decades. This investment reflects an unwavering commitment to empowering young UAE Nationals, giving them the tools required to become integral components of this internationally expanding sector.

Since its inception, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company has placed the development of local Emirati talent at the heart of its strategic mission. The organisation recognises that a sustainable civil nuclear programme is built upon the solid foundation of a highly skilled, locally sourced workforce. Through six dedicated talent pipeline programmes, ENEC has empowered a new generation of Emiratis to lead this strategically important industry. To date, more than 2,000 UAE Nationals have played an instrumental role in the successful development and operation of the Barakah Plant.