UAE launches 'Beladi' programme to prepare youth for national service

The Ministry of Defence has launched the "Beladi" programme to develop young Emiratis'  leadership skills, technical expertise, and practical knowledge talent and prepare them for national service.

The programme will run for 11 months as part of the national service pathway.

During its first pilot year, it will offer a range of specialised pathways, with plans to expand them in subsequent phases in line with national capability development objectives and the programme’s direction.

It begins with a comprehensive Leadership Competency Assessment phase to identify and evaluate promising Emirati candidates.

These include psychological, physical, and cognitive evaluations, alongside face-to-face interviews and field assessments, to identify candidates’ capabilities and guide them towards pathways suited to their potential and interests.

Candidates will then undergo rigorous instruction led by expert leaders and instructors from across the UAE Armed Forces, combining specialised coursework with hands-on application.

The initiative aims to establish a qualified operational reserve force capable of contributing to enhanced national readiness, alongside reinforcing the values of national responsibility, belonging and service to the nation.