UAE – Net Zero Automotive
Summary
The IMI’s mission is to support the global automotive workforce in achieving and maintaining professional competence and continuing professional development to service, repair and maintain vehicles to industry standards, including new automotive technologies such as EV and ADAS. This is critical to ensure consumer confidence in the vehicles driven and used in all geographies around the world. The IMI has set the benchmark in the standards for automotive skills globally and brings these skills to all geographies for worldwide road user confidence.
In response to the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and the rapid adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, Al-Futtaim Automotive recognised a critical need to upskill its workforce in electric mobility.
Partnering with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), Al-Futtaim established the region’s first IMI Approved Centre for Electric Mobility Technologies in Dubai in 2023.
The IMI worked closely with Al-Futtaim to deliver accredited training aligned to global standards, including IMI TechSafe recognition for technicians working safely on electric, hybrid, and ADAS technologies.
To date, more than 2,100 technicians have achieved IMI Electric/Hybrid Vehicle qualifications, with a further 700 expected by the end of 2025. Al-Futtaim also became the first international partner to gain direct claims status for ADAS Level 1 and 2 certifications.
This initiative has not only strengthened Al-Futtaim’s technical capability but also supported the UAE’s wider sustainability and mobility goals. The bespoke IMI-inspired photocard certification system introduced by Al-Futtaim has improved safety and compliance while promoting professional pride.
The project demonstrates how UK skills frameworks and quality assurance models can be successfully adapted to local contexts, offering a scalable model for workforce transformation across the Middle East and beyond.
Impact and Achievements
In 2023, Al-Futtaim’s Automotive Talent Centre in Dubai became the region’s first IMI Approved Centre for electric mobility technologies. This hub is working to future proof the industry by offering the most up-to-date training on the latest technology.
Since its inception, over 2,100 technicians have become certified in IMI Electric/Hybrid Vehicle qualifications (in Levels 1-4). An additional 700 people are expected to gain certification by the end of 2025.
Key initiatives include:
- EV Training Expansion: Over 1000 users have registered for IMI EV certification, with 147 achieving advanced Technical Levels 2-4.
- Local First responder EV 2.2 Training: Civil Defence and Police forces are trained to handle EV emergencies safely and efficiently.
- Launch of EV Photocard System: Associates working with high-voltage vehicles are now required to carry verifiable ID cards.
- IMI TechSafe Campaign: This initiative promotes EV safety and aligns with sustainability goals like COP 28 and the local Net-Zero campaign.
- Professional Recognition: IMI certifications for Sales and Technical roles, creating a unified standard across brands.
Read more about IMI’s international work here:
