35 officials get training in international protocol

Dubai: Some 35 high ranking dignitaries from various government and private sectors completed the Third International Protocol Manager Training last week.

The training was held under the patronage of Protocol Department, the Ruler's Court, Government of Dubai, and the Protocol School of Washington.

Key figures present at the ceremony were Ahmad Al Za'abi, Assistant Director General, Protocol Department Dubai; Abdullah Al Shaibani, Secretary General of The Executive Council; and Pamela Eyring, President and Director of Protocol School of Washington.

As the grand finale to the occasion, the Protocol School of Washington presented the International Protocol Excellence Award to Ahmad Al Za'abi for his visionary efforts and contribution to the field of international protocol.

Eyring said: "Al Za'abi has a vision of international protocol excellence for Dubai, the UAE, the gulf region and internationally".

"He understands that successful diplomacy can only be achieved in an atmosphere of mutual respect and cross-cultural sensitivity," she said.

"More than simply believing in the idea of protocol excellence, Ahmad has taken action.

"He has been instrumental in providing protocol education on universally accepted procedures and operating standards.

"He did this not only for his staff, but for professionals all over the region."

The Protocol Department of Dubai is the department responsible for managing local and international protocols for His Highness Shaikh Moghammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as well as members of the ruling family, VIPs and official visitors of the country.