Dubai-based e-hailing taxi platform Hala has launched a new Youth Ambassador Program aimed at giving university students hands-on experience across different parts of the business and preparing them for future careers.
Developed in partnership with +twe (Together We Empower), an AI-powered early-career platform, the six-month pilot initiative will bring together 20 to 25 students from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The program is designed to go beyond traditional internships by allowing students to take part in real projects and business functions.
Participants will gain exposure to areas such as marketing, content creation, analytics, finance, project management and business operations. The program also includes job shadowing, workshops, mentoring sessions and involvement in live campaigns and shoots.
The launch was marked by a signing ceremony attended by Nayla Samaha, Director of Marketing at Hala, Osama Damati, CEO and Co-Founder of +twe, and Deemah Abdelkader, CMO and Co-Founder of +twe. The first group of ambassadors also attended an orientation session and workshop.
The initiative has already started with nine students from eight universities, including the University of Wollongong in Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, University of Birmingham Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai and Middlesex University Dubai. More than 150 applications were received for the program.
Khaled Nuseibeh, CEO of Hala, says: “Hala is built around how people move through the city every day, and that experience is constantly evolving. 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. They will have the opportunity to engage with the business directly, bring forward new ideas, and play a key role in shaping the future of ride-hailing in the region.”
The company said the program is open to students of all nationalities and aims to help bridge the gap between education and employment. At the end of the six months, participants will receive certification and a portfolio of work experience.
Osama Damati, Co-Founder and CEO of +twe (Together We Empower), says: “Bridging the gap between education and employment requires more than access, it requires meaningful, real-world exposure. 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 and enabling them to contribute with confidence from the very start of their careers.”
Prisha, a Hala Ambassador and student at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, says: “Being part of this program goes beyond learning, it offers a seat at the table where the future of mobility is being shaped. There is also a strong sense of excitement in gaining experience with a homegrown brand like Hala. 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, and reflects the value of autonomy to collaborate, innovate, and contribute in meaningful ways beyond the classroom.”
Hala said the initiative reflects growing efforts in the UAE to equip young people with practical skills and career opportunities as the country continues to position itself as a centre for innovation and talent development.
