Dubai, UAE – IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest hotel groups, has adopted a classroom at Al Noor Training Centre for People of Determination in Dubai as part of the Centre’s Adopt-a-Class initiative, demonstrating its commitment to cultivating inclusivity.
The year-long partnership will see IHG support the development and training of students of determination, while actively involving its teams in hands-on volunteering and workplace experience opportunities throughout the year. It aligns with IHG’s commitment to improve the lives of 30 million people by 2030, as part of its Journey to Tomorrow responsible business plan.
The inauguration ceremony of the classroom took place at the Al Noor Training Centre in Dubai and was attended by Al Noor board members and IHG senior management, including Managing Director Haitham Mattar, who interacted with students and toured the facility. The adopted SAIE Emerald Class – part of Al Noor’s Pre-Supported and Inclusive Employment programme – accommodates 10 students of determination who are being trained to transition into the workforce and become active members of society.
The sponsorship will be directed towards key areas such as transportation for internships and training, employment of specialised staff, and essential therapies including physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, vocational training, and vision rehabilitation. These services ensure that students receive the holistic support necessary to prepare for future employment and integration into the community.
We are honoured to continue and deepen our partnership with Al Noor which began last year, and be a part of the meaningful work they do. Our commitment extends beyond financial support and we want to enable our employees to engage directly with students, contribute their time and skills, and help create a more inclusive society. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, South West Asia, Middle East and Africa IHG Hotels & Resorts
As part of the group’s involvement with Al Noor, IHG will engage with the centre throughout the year with employees offering their time on a voluntary basis. As many as 20 IHG staff will participate in a dedicated corporate volunteering day, as well as several engagement activities across the year. Employees will also have opportunities to support students both at Al Noor and within IHG premises in departments such as reception, housekeeping, in-house restaurants, and administration.
The collaboration will open doors for potential internships and employment opportunities for the students. Ranjini Ramnath, Director of Al Noor Training Centre, said: We are delighted to welcome IHG as one of our Adopt-a-Class partners. Their contribution will go a long way in enhancing the quality of services we provide and offering our students real-world experiences that are essential for long-term inclusion. We hope this initiative will encourage more organisations to invest in inclusive practices and workplace integration.
Al Noor Training Centre for People of Determination is a non-profit organisation that has been providing education and vocational training to people of determination for more than 40 years. With the support of partners such as IHG, the Centre can continue delivering impactful programmes and shaping a more inclusive future for all. With Al Noor heavily reliant on goodwill support from corporate sponsors and benefactors, the Centre currently provides education and development services to more than 220 young students, nurturing their potential and independence.
About IHG®
IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.
With a family of 17 hotel brands and IHG Rewards, one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a further 1,800 in the development pipeline.
- Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo
- Premium: voco Hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels
- Essentials: Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels
- Suites: Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 350,000 people work across IHG’s hotels and corporate offices globally.
Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG Rewards. For our latest news, visit our Newsroom and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
Ankita Chopra
Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs, IMEA
+971 4 213 6043
IHG
