PMI ATPs
Project Management Institute is expanding its regional training initiatives to address rising project talent demand across the Middle East and North Africa. The organization gathered regional training leaders at the Dubai World Trade Centre on September 10, 2026, to discuss workforce development, future skills, and growing organizational needs.
Regional Focus on Project Talent Demand
The event brought together representatives from corporate, academic, and government entities, alongside leaders from the PMI UAE Chapter. Meeting the growing project talent demand requires structured alignment between training providers and rapidly expanding regional sectors, specifically in infrastructure, sustainability, and technological modernization.
During the opening sessions, participants evaluated strategies for workforce upskilling and organizational transformation. PMI works with nearly 200 Authorized Training Partners across 17 regional markets, providing access to internationally recognized certifications through local institutes.
“Infrastructure, digitalization, AI, sustainability and economic diversification are creating tremendous opportunities, but delivering on these ambitions depends on having the right people and skills.”
Hanny Alshazly, Managing Director for MENA at PMI
Workforce Growth Projections Across MENA
Global estimates from PMI indicate that industries worldwide will require up to 30 million additional project managers by 2035. Within the MENA region, the project professional workforce is projected to increase from 1.3 million to 1.8 million individuals over the same period.
Consequently, regional economies will need up to 600,000 additional qualified professionals to support ongoing investments in economic diversification initiatives. Expanding partner capacity remains central to managing this long-term project talent demand across public and private sectors.
New Standards for Instructor-Led Training
PMI outlined major updates to its professional development programs, which now cover more than nine specialized product lines. Offerings include the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential, the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and specialized certifications in AI management and construction.
Starting December 2026, live instructor-led training fulfilling PMP eligibility requirements will be delivered exclusively through Authorized Training Partners. This policy change aims to standardize preparation quality globally, supported by continued investment in localized Arabic instructional materials.
Recognition for Regional Training Partners
The gathering concluded with the presentation of the 2026 PMI MENA ATP Partner Recognition Awards. PM Tricks received the Partner of the Year award for performance and learner outreach across the region. Additionally, the PMI UAE Chapter signed a Memorandum of Understanding with PM Tricks to expand cooperative development efforts.
Other award recipients included PwC Academy for workforce development, the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) for academic talent development, and Engineering Tracks for organizational impact in education and training.
