QE2 Hospitality Academy, the region’s cruise-liner-based hospitality training institution, announces the hosting of the finals of the Future Leaders challenge (FLC) 2026, aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 ship.

The international, multi-day summit will take place from February 9 to 11, 2026 under the theme “building bridges”: strategising the human capital plan. Empowering tomorrow's tourism and hospitality leaders.

Encouraging an integrated community model for talent growth and advancement, the FLC provides a forum for students and young professionals from all backgrounds to engage in career development and networking opportunities.

With participation from 30 schools worldwide, the event is expected to welcome more than 100 students, young leaders, educators, and industry professionals from over 30 countries, creating a truly global platform for leadership, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange.

The event provides an essential forum for global decision-makers and innovators shaping the future of hospitality, where ideas are exchanged and growth is inspired.

Patrick Coodien, Director of QE2 Hospitality Academy, said: “We are immensely proud to host the Future Leaders Challenge, an event that perfectly reflects our mission at QE2 Hospitality Academy. This platform allows us to shape future-ready hospitality and tourism talent by offering meaningful learning experiences, opening real career pathways, and connecting young leaders directly with industry. Hosting this global initiative in Dubai reinforces our commitment to strengthening the city’s position as a leader in tourism excellence and innovation.”

Supported by more than 32 sponsors and partners, the Future Leaders Challenge 2026 will open on February 9 with participant arrival aboard the QE2.

The official programme begins on February 10 under the patronage of QE2 Hospitality Academy and will feature keynote addresses, inspirational panel discussion, future-skills workshops, and a bespoke immersive experience, “Voyage of Leadership”, followed by a sunset reception on the open deck.

The event will conclude on February 11 with global-citizenship workshops, industry-led mentorship sessions, youth awards.

The programme will reach its grand finale on the evening of February 11 with the presentation of the Final Project Awards, followed by an exclusive gala dinner.

A gala dinner will be held to conclude the event, featuring the official announcement of the winner.

This evening will take place in the presence of senior dignitaries from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DTCM)and the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), underscoring the significance of the occasion and celebrating excellence, innovation, and future leadership.

The event aims to position the MEA region as a global hub for innovative and sustainable hospitality leadership. -TradeArabia News Service