First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) has received top recognition at the Nafis Award 2025 for its achievements in Emiratisation and national talent development. The award, organized by the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council and held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, acknowledges organizations that contribute significantly to the UAE’s efforts in integrating more Emiratis into the workforce.
FAB was awarded first place for exceeding the Central Bank of the UAE’s regulatory mandate among large entities in the banking sector category. The bank also received a Diamond Category award for its work in advancing strategic Emiratisation initiatives. These honors were presented during a ceremony at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi attended by senior government officials and business leaders.
Hana Al Rostamani, Group Chief Executive Officer of FAB, commented: “Empowering Emirati talent is not only a strategic priority for FAB, but also a national duty and a fundamental pillar of our vision for sustainable growth and leadership. This recognition from the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council reaffirms our dedication to nurturing a world-class Emirati workforce capable of driving innovation, shaping the future of banking, and advancing the UAE’s economic transformation. We remain committed to enabling Emiratis to lead, innovate, and excel both locally and globally, driving progress that embodies the UAE’s ambition and potential.”
Currently, Emiratis represent 47% of core roles and 40% of critical positions at FAB. The bank reports that 92% of its branch management roles across the country are held by nationals. It also highlights significant participation by Emirati women in leadership positions and notes an increase in hiring within fields such as artificial intelligence and digital management.
FAB’s approach includes targeted recruitment through platforms like Nafis, career fairs, salary support programs for nationals, and involvement in leadership training initiatives. The bank states that it hires Emiratis even in regions with fewer job opportunities—including Al Ain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah—supporting broader economic inclusion.
The Nafis Programme is part of wider government efforts launched under the Fifty Initiatives Package in 2021 aimed at developing local talent as outlined by UAE Vision 2031.
