Carrefour strengthens Emiratisation commitment

Grocery major Carrefour, owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim in the UAE, has launched its Masarat Programme – a bespoke growth initiative for Emirati frontliners, future team leaders, department heads and store managers. This comes alongside the announcement that Carrefour has recruited over 1,000 UAE nationals since 2021 – currently representing more than 6% of its total domestic workforce – and is on target to achieve its goal of 3,000 by 2026.

Facilitated by Carrefour’s Retail Business School successful Emirati applicants will receive skills-based training and mentoring from Majid Al Futtaim Retail’s learning partners. The new initiative is fully aligned with the UAE government’s NAFIS programme, which aims to support UAE nationals who choose to pursue a career in the private sector as part of the federal Projects of the 50 series.

Commenting on the initiative, Bernardo Perloiro, Chief Operating Officer – GCC at Majid Al Futtaim Retail said, “Masarat will offer a direct route to success for thousands of talented and ambitious Emiratis, including development, training and upskilling opportunities. In partnership with NAFIS, our Masarat Programme is an exciting and supportive stepping stone from which 3,000 new national colleagues will be able to launch and pursue successful careers within retail by 2026. We remain committed to supporting the growth of all Carrefour colleagues, recognising that our people remain our greatest asset.”

The Masarat programme will be split into five key stages, beginning with frontline roles and moving through to district management level to enhance cross-functional expertise. As well as critical skills development specific to each role, participants will be rewarded with financial incentives and opportunities to advance their career.