DCT is proud to pioneer a culinary apprenticeship programme - the first of its kind in the UAE -  with top industry partners.

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are work-study programmes that combine on-the job training at a specific employer with related classroom instruction at college.

Students enrolled in the Culinary Operations Apprenticeship will learn in blocks. Some blocks will be taught in the classroom at DCT (40% of the programme), but the majority of learning (60%) will take place while working in an industry partner’s kitchen facilities, supervised by industry-appointed chefs. Students enrolled in the apprenticeship will have labour contracts and will receive a monthly salary throughout the duration of the programme.

Dubai College of Tourism has secured Culinary Apprenticeships with the prestigious Emirates Flight Catering starting in August 2025.

How does this Apprenticeship work?

Students will be employed at Emirates Flight Catering but supported through an education programme at Dubai College of Tourism giving them all the knowledge and skills needed to work as a professional chef.

The programme will be structured as follows:

Block 1: Students begin the programme with 4 weeks at Dubai College of Tourism

Block 2: Students spend 11 months in industry with Emirates Flight Catering

Block 3: Students return to Dubai College of Tourism for 4 weeks.

Block 4: Students spend 11 months in industry with Emirates Flight Catering

Block 5: Final 2 weeks at Dubai College of Tourism

Whilst on the job, apprentices will rotate between different skills, collect evidence of their experiences and stay in close contact with a college mentor.

 Who is Eligible?

• Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
• Candidates must have completed high school.
• Candidates must be ready to move to Dubai in August and commit to a 2 years’ work/study programme.

 What will the student receive?

• A monthly salary, accommodation, 2 meals a day, uniform, transportation, employment visa and medical insurance.
• Subsidized course fees.

• On successful completion of the programme, students will receive a Qualification in Culinary Operations from DCT – a Nationally Recognized Qualification awarded by the Ministry of Education UAE/Knowledge & Human Development Authority of Dubai.

What does the student need to provide?

• AED 2, 000AED towards the course fee (the remaining fee will be sponsored by Emirates Flight Catering)
• Flights to Dubai if required.
• A passion for cooking, a willingness to learn and a great work ethic!

What is the application process?

• Complete the FREE application form here (be sure to select under programme: ‘Apprenticeship – Level 4 Culinary Operations’.)
• The deadline for applications is 11th July 2025.
• DCT's Admissions office will contact candidates to schedule an online assessment and interview.
• If successful, the candidate will complete an interview with Emirates Flight Catering.
• If selected, an offer will be sent to the candidate.