Etihad Airways Hosts KHUTWATY 2025:A Call to the UAE’s Future Leaders

More than 3,000 Emiratis explored future-focused opportunities at Etihad’s inaugural fair, featuring direct engagement with leadership, practical workshops, and high-impact partnerships.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways hosted its inaugural KHUTWATY 2025 career fair, a high-impact event aimed at identifying and attracting the UAE’s most ambitious and capable Nationals to join the airline’s next phase of growth.

Held at Yas Conference Centre, the event drew over 3,000 Emiratis eager to explore roles where they can contribute their skills and expertise, grow into leadership positions, and shape the future of aviation in the UAE. It was an open invitation to those ready to play a role in giving flight to ambition – Etihad’s core purpose.

KHUTWATY 2025 offered direct engagement with Etihad’s executive leadership and recruitment teams, insight into the airline’s high-performance standards, and access to Etihad’s six flagship UAE National Talent Programmes: Cadet Pilot, Cadet Technician, Airport Management, Bedayati, MBA Graduate, and Emerging Talent. Each programme is structured to fast-track high-potential individuals into roles that demand ownership, accountability, and impact.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, stated: “We are entering one of the most ambitious chapters in Etihad’s journey. To deliver on our vision to be the airline everyone wants to fly, we need the best minds and strongest drive. KHUTWATY is about selecting future leaders: Nationals who think strategically, act with intent, and are ready to push this company – and this country – forward.” 

Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer, Etihad Airways, added: “KHUTWATY 2025 is designed to connect ambitious UAE Nationals with real opportunities. We are not simply offering employment – we are opening the door to those ready to take on responsibility, make an impact, and help shape the future of Etihad and the UAE. We’re looking for leaders who will carry the UAE’s ambition into the skies and beyond. Our commitment to UAE National talent is not just a priority – it reflects our belief that ambition, when met with the right mindset and drive, is what truly drives sustainable success.”

Learning from Those Who’ve Done It

A cornerstone of the event was a curated series of talks by Emirati professionals who have risen through Etihad – demonstrating what’s possible through commitment and high performance. Their journeys demonstrate Etihad’s values: ambitious, driven, united, authentic, safe, and passionate.

Senior leaders also hosted panel discussions outlining the structure and expectations of each talent programme, with open Q&A sessions that offered direct insight into the opportunities ahead.

Practical Tools to Stand Out

KHUTWATY 2025 featured focused workshops designed to sharpen attendees’ readiness to compete and lead. Sessions included:

• Digital recruitment masterclasses – practical guidance on navigating Etihad’s hiring process
• Personal branding workshops – run in partnership with LinkedIn
• Communication and confidence coaching – delivered in collaboration with Mawaheb – Department of Government Enablement

KHUTWATY 2025 underscored a clear message: Etihad is looking for Emiratis who are ready to step up, contribute with purpose, and play a meaningful role in the airline’s future.