Amazon and UAE Federal Youth Authority Launch Amazon Youth Council
A new council pairs young Emirati professionals at Amazon and AWS with mentorship, training, and community programs.
Council launch
Amazon launched the Amazon Youth Council (AYC) with the UAE Federal Youth Authority on International Youth Day, August 12, 2026. The council is made up of young Emirati professionals working at Amazon and AWS in the UAE. It was formed only a few weeks before the announcement.
The council has two broad aims: to foster cultural learning and to create space for young voices. Its work includes youth-driven campaigns, partnerships, and events aimed at community impact. Inside Amazon, the council leads internal cultural integration initiatives that celebrate Emirati identity, values, and customs. It also connects Emirati youth to mentorship opportunities and to Amazon's global innovation network.
Programs run through the council include technology training, skill-building workshops, and knowledge-sharing seminars. For the young Emiratis involved, these are meant to build practical skills alongside a stronger internal voice.
Leaders on the initiative
Ronaldo Mouchawar, vice president of Amazon Middle East, Africa and Turkey, said Amazon believes in continuous learning and curiosity as a way to unlock potential. He said the council reflects Amazon's commitment to empowering Emirati youth.
Jassim Al Obaidli, director of the Youth Interaction Department and head of the Youth Councils Network at the UAE Federal Youth Authority, said the council represents collaboration between the public and private sectors to create youth opportunities. He said it equips Emirati youth with skills, experiences, and confidence.
The arrangement puts private-sector resources behind a government-affiliated youth network. It gives young Emirati employees at Amazon a formal channel to influence company culture while staying connected to a wider talent pipeline.
Launch-day event
The launch included a Youth Day activation at Amazon's Dubai office. The event connected Emirati entrepreneurs and homegrown brands with employees. A 'Youth Hub' featured an entrepreneur showcase, a business and innovation competition, and booths on culture, wellness, sustainability, and AI. Hundreds of Amazon employees engaged with Emirati-owned businesses at the activation.
Technology demonstrations and workshops on AI and innovation were part of the day. There was also a Shark Tank-style competition, health and wellbeing sessions, eco-friendly product displays, and traditional Emirati food.
Related education move
Separately, Amazon UAE and American University in Dubai launched a MicroMaster in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The program runs alongside the council as another route for Emirati students and professionals to build commercial and technical skills.
