SHARJAH // Emirati jobseekers from across the Northern Emirates turned out in force on Wednesday to apply for vacancies in banking.
Hundreds attended the careers fair at the Airport Road offices of Sharjah Human Resources Department (SHRD), part of the emirate’s government, looking to land one of more than 100 vacancies at Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank.
Many were university and high school graduates looking for work that fitted their studies, while others were keen on landing their first job.
“I finished my national service in May and I’m trying to find any job to secure my future,” said Mohamed Khalifa, from Umm Al Quwain.
The 21-year-old high school graduate applied for several positions and was hopeful of receiving an offer soon.
“I had an interview at Sharjah Municipality and I applied for a job at Sharjah Airport but I’ve not received a job offer or acceptance.”
Sharjah resident Saoud Ahmed, who worked at the emirate’s municipality, went to the fair in search of a new challenge.
“I had an interview today and it was good, I hope I get selected,” said the 28-year-old who would like a career in customer service.
More than 200 interviews were carried out on the first day of the jobs fair, which ends today, with two thirds of applicants women.
Ayesha Mohammed received a text message alert from SHRD informing her about the job opportunities. The Ajman resident is working in a government department in Sharjah but would like to find a job at a bank.
“I had a good interview,” said the 29-year-old. “I am hoping to get a job in customer service or a back office position.”
Waheeb Al Khazraji, head of human resources at Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, said that almost half of the bank’s workforce was Emirati, one of the highest ratios in the banking sector.
He said successful candidates would be given training before starting in their new roles.
“For a person to excel in his job, he needs to have an interest in a certain position, we give him a chance to explore and train in a certain job he likes and where it would lead in his carrier path,” said Mr Al Khazraji. “Then we do periodic reviews to make sure he is on the right path and if he needs to change.”
Salama Al Meraikhi, head of Emiratisation at the bank, said the turn out and standard of applicants was very good.
“We are conducting interviews for people who mainly hold high school degrees today, tomorrow there will be interviews for higher degrees.”
tzriqat@thenational.ae