QE2 Hospitality Academy, the region’s renowned cruise-liner-based hospitality training institution, announces the hosting of the finals of the Future Leaders challenge (FLC) 2026, aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 ship. The international, multi-day summit will take place from 9 to 11 February 2026 under the theme “building bridges”: strategizing 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. Its mission is to position the MEA region as a global hub for developing innovative, collaborative leaders in hospitality and tourism. With a strong focus on mentorship, sustainability, and experiential learning, FLC goes beyond traditional career development to cultivate a new generation of socially and environmentally conscious leaders, aligning with the region’s vision for sustainable growth.
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.
Commenting on the announcement, 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 9 February with participant arrival aboard the QE2. The official programme begins on 10 February 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 11 February with global-citizenship workshops, industry-led mentorship sessions, youth awards. The programme will reach its grand finale on the evening of 11 February 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 distinguished 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. Through hosting this event, QE2 Hospitality Academy reaffirms its commitment to the UAE and Dubai Vision 2030 and Agenda D33, with a focus on digital innovation and economic growth, offering meaningful opportunities for education providers that embrace emerging technologies.
Since its establishment at Dubai’s iconic waterfront, the Academy has grown into a recognized center of excellence, known for combining academic rigor with immersive, real-world experience. Operated under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, it offers internationally accredited programs in hospitality, culinary arts, and related fields. Students benefit from a unique learning environment aboard the historic QE2, as well as placements with five-star hotels across the UAE, ensuring they graduate with the global skills, confidence, and practical knowledge needed to excel in the industry.
