Arab Youth Centre launches 2026 New Economy Programme
- The Arab Youth Centre launched the New Economy Programme 2026 in partnership with the New Economy Academy.
- The initiative aims to train 400 young Arabs in technology, sustainability, and creative business models.
- The curriculum covers AI, blockchain, digital infrastructure, and the green economy.
- Training is delivered online in four cohorts throughout November 2026.
- Participants receive joint certificates from the Arab Youth Centre and the New Economy Academy.
The Arab Youth Centre launched the New Economy Programme 2026 in Dubai on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, to provide business and technology training to 400 young Arabs. The program operates in collaboration with the New Economy Academy.
While the Arab Youth Centre launched this initiative, other regional projects have emerged to address similar labor needs. For instance, the Digital Farming School in Côte d'Ivoire recently received nearly 4,000 applications for 50 places, highlighting high demand for specialized training. Meanwhile, the GATEWAY program in Nigeria has graduated 464 young people, aiming to connect 340,000 Nigerians to gig work over five years.
The Digital Farming School, supported by OCP Africa and the LEET Initiative, features a 170-hectare experimental farm where students test technological solutions.
This school originated from a 2023 cooperation agreement between the Ivorian state and OCP Group.
GATEWAY participants use partner hubs to access computers and workspace. Graduates report varying outcomes, including one student earning $1,200 from a gig and another securing a 6-figure salary in UI/UX design.
Training 400 young Arabs for modern business
The program aims to train 400 young Arabs on how technology, sustainability, and creativity are transforming business operations and work environments.
This school offers a two-year program for those students.
Curriculum covers AI, blockchain, and green economy
Participants learn how these technologies impact labor markets, industry, and product delivery.
The program covers green, circular, and creative economies alongside AI governance. The program introduces students to digital platforms, freelance work, and financial innovation.
Separately, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and the National Polytechnic Institute Félix Houphouët-Boigny inaugurated a Digital Farming School in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, on October 31, 2026.
Online delivery across four November cohorts
The initiative will be delivered entirely online in Arabic across four cohorts throughout November 2026.
Each cohort completes 8 hours of training over a two-day period.
Joint certification with New Economy Academy
Participants receive electronic certificates of participation issued jointly by the Arab Youth Centre and the New Economy Academy.
The New Economy Academy provides specialist trainers and experts to deliver the program. These experts combine economic concepts with practical discussions on their application in markets and industries.
Executive Director Fatima Al Hallami on economic growth
Fatima Al Hallami, Executive Director of the Arab Youth Centre, said, "Through our partnership with the New Economy Academy, we aim to help young Arabs understand economic change, make informed career decisions and establish businesses that meet their communities' needs".
Al Hallami added, "By connecting their ambitions with development priorities, we strengthen their contribution to sustainable economic growth".
Initiative links business models to employment opportunities
The initiative links emerging business models with enterprise and employment opportunities.
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