The UAE Capital Market Authority (CMA) and the Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) have launched a new programme aimed at developing Emirati professionals in investor relations, creating a stronger talent pipeline for the country’s growing capital markets.
The Emirati Investor Relations Development Programme was announced during the MEIRA Annual Conference in Dubai. The initiative combines professional training, regulatory knowledge and internationally recognised qualifications to prepare UAE nationals for specialised roles connecting listed companies with investors.
Investor relations has become a more important function as UAE markets continue attracting international investors. Companies need professionals who understand financial communication, market expectations and regulatory requirements — not just traditional corporate messaging.
New Programme Combines International Certification With UAE Market Knowledge
The programme brings together MEIRA’s Certified Investor Relations Officer (CIRO) qualification pathway with a dedicated UAE Financial Regulatory Module developed in collaboration with the CMA.
Participants will receive structured training that covers investor communication practices alongside the regulatory environment shaping UAE capital markets. The programme will include in-person CIRO training, regulatory assessments and content tailored to the background of selected participants.
The approach reflects a growing demand for professionals who can operate between companies, investors and regulators. Investor relations teams are often responsible for explaining business performance, supporting transparency and maintaining communication with shareholders.
For UAE companies, developing local expertise in this field could help expand the pool of professionals working across listed companies, financial institutions and capital market organisations.
First Cohort Planned for Q4 2026 With Long-Term Expansion Goal
The first group of participants is expected to begin training in the fourth quarter of 2026 and will include UAE nationals from entities regulated by the CMA.
Training will be delivered through a combination of face-to-face and hybrid formats, including sessions hosted at CMA facilities. Over the longer term, the programme framework aims to train more than 100 professionals while creating clearer career pathways in investor relations and capital markets.
The initiative also includes plans to establish a dedicated talent pool of graduates that can support companies looking for qualified investor relations specialists.
That part matters because investor relations is a relatively specialised career track. Building a larger network of trained professionals gives companies more options when developing their internal market communication teams.
CMA and MEIRA Strengthen Capital Market Skills Development
Under the partnership, the CMA will contribute regulatory expertise, programme localisation and training facilities, while MEIRA will lead delivery using its regional investor relations experience.
MEIRA will also provide access to internationally recognised certification opportunities through its cooperation with the UK Investor Relations Society.
CMA CEO Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi said the programme supports the development of skills needed for transparent and trusted markets, highlighting the importance of strategic communication and investor engagement.
MEIRA CEO Reza Eftekhari said the partnership combines the organisation’s professional development experience with the CMA’s regulatory role to create new opportunities for Emirati talent.
Supporting the UAE’s Financial Sector Talent Pipeline
The launch comes as the UAE continues expanding its financial ecosystem through capital market development, corporate growth and increased participation from global investors.
For businesses operating in UAE free zones, listed companies and financial services sectors, stronger investor relations capabilities can support better communication between companies and international markets.
The programme also aligns with a wider push to develop specialised national talent across industries where technical knowledge and professional certification are increasingly important.
Investor relations may sit behind the scenes, but it plays a direct role in how companies present performance, manage expectations and build confidence among shareholders.
About UAE Capital Market Authority
The UAE Capital Market Authority is responsible for overseeing and developing regulatory frameworks supporting the country’s capital markets. The authority works to strengthen market integrity, investor protection and professional standards across regulated entities.
About MEIRA
The Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) is a regional organisation focused on developing investor relations practices, professional standards and education for companies and market participants.
Sources
- Emirates News Agency (WAM):
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/c2ivgxt-cma-and-meira-launch-programme-strengthen-emirati - UAE Capital Market Authority:
https://www.uaecma.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/1/10/2026/cma-and-meira-launch-programme-to-strengthen-emirati-investor-relations-capabilities - Emirates Today:
https://www.emaratalyoum.com/business/local/2026-10-02-1.2088450 - Al Khaleej:
https://www.alkhaleej.ae/2026-10-01/economy/uae-markets/cma-meira-emirati-investor-relations-capabilities