In a significant shift, UAE hotel operators are increasingly favoring interns from hospitality schools over freelancers to fill staffing roles during the upcoming peak season. This change comes as hotels seek to address talent shortages and ensure a steady supply of trained staff.
The Shift from Freelancers to Interns
Traditionally, UAE hotels relied on freelancers and part-time staff to manage the high demand during peak seasons. However, the current trend shows a move towards hiring interns, primarily from top-tier international hospitality schools. These interns are considered a more reliable and long-term solution to staffing challenges.
Benefits of Hiring Interns
One of the main advantages of hiring interns is the ability to train them according to the hotel’s specific needs and standards. Interns from hospitality schools bring a foundational knowledge of the industry, which can be built upon with on-the-job training. This approach ensures interns are well-prepared to take on operational roles, such as food and beverage services and housekeeping.
Compensation Packages for Interns
To attract top talent, hotels are offering attractive compensation packages to interns. These packages often include visas, insurance, accommodation, transportation, and monthly stipends ranging from Dh 1,000 to Dh 2,000. For part-time recruits, hourly or daily contracts are common, with pay ranging from Dh 5,000 to Dh 10,000 per month depending on the position.
Impact on the Hospitality Industry
The shift towards hiring interns is expected to have a positive impact on the hospitality industry in the UAE. By providing interns with comprehensive training and attractive compensation packages, hotels can build a more stable and skilled workforce. This approach also helps address the retention challenges faced by the industry, as interns are more likely to stay with the company after completing their internships.
Enhanced Training and Development Programs
To maximize the potential of their intern workforce, many hotels have implemented enhanced training and development programs. These programs are designed to equip interns with practical skills and industry knowledge, ensuring they can contribute effectively to the hotel’s operations.
- Structured Training: Hotels are investing in structured training programs that cover all aspects of hospitality, from front desk operations to food and beverage management.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Interns are paired with experienced mentors who provide guidance and support, helping them navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry.
- Rotational Programs: Many hotels offer rotational programs, allowing interns to gain experience in different departments and develop a well-rounded skill set.
Challenges and Considerations
While hiring interns offers many benefits, there are also challenges to consider. Hotels must ensure that they have the resources and infrastructure to provide effective training and support for interns. Additionally, managing a mix of interns and experienced staff can require careful coordination to maintain service quality and consistency.
Positive Feedback from Interns
Interns who have participated in these programs have provided positive feedback, highlighting the valuable experience and career development opportunities they have gained. Many interns appreciate the hands-on training and the chance to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- Career Advancement: Interns often view their time in the UAE as a stepping stone to future career opportunities in the global hospitality industry.
- Cultural Exchange: Working in the UAE allows interns to experience a diverse and multicultural work environment, enhancing their global perspective.
Future Outlook
As the UAE continues to grow as a hospitality hub, the trend of hiring interns is likely to continue. With events such as the COP28 summit, F1 Abu Dhabi, and the Dubai Airshow driving high occupancy rates, hotels will need to maintain a robust workforce to meet the demand. By investing in interns, hotels can build a pipeline of future employees who are well-versed in the industry’s standards and practices.
The focus on internships is also in line with the UAE’s broader goals of fostering talent and creating opportunities for the youth. As the country aims to diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a global tourism destination, developing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce in the hospitality sector becomes increasingly crucial.
The shift towards hiring interns for peak-season jobs represents a strategic move by UAE hotel operators to address talent shortages and ensure a steady supply of trained staff. By offering attractive compensation packages and comprehensive training, hotels can build a more stable and skilled workforce. This approach benefits the hotels in terms of operational efficiency and provides valuable career development opportunities for interns. As the trend continues, the UAE’s hospitality industry is well-positioned to thrive and grow, meeting the increasing demands of a burgeoning tourism sector.
