Lilly launches ‘Nujoom Al Ghad’ to build the next generation of Emirati talent in healthcare

Eli Lilly and Company (Lilly Gulf) has announced the launch of Nujoom Al Ghad, a new graduate programme designed to develop UAE national talent and create new career pathways into the pharmaceutical industry.

Beginning in December 2026, the 12-month programme will offer Emirati graduates structured rotations across commercial and non-commercial functions, giving participants first-hand exposure to how a global medicine company works and the different expertise required to bring innovative medicines to patients.

The programme represents Lilly’s long-term investment in building local talents while supporting the UAE’s ambition to develop a highly skilled national workforce across strategically important sectors, including healthcare.

Tayllit Aherdan, Vice President & General Manager, Lilly Gulf (UAE, Kuwait and Qatar) said: “The future of healthcare in the UAE will depend not only on scientific innovation, but also on developing the people and capabilities that will help advance it. Nujoom Al Ghad is about creating that opportunity for Emirati talent.”

“We want young UAE nationals to see our industry as a place where they can build ambitious and meaningful careers — whether in science, access, policy, commercial functions or communications. At the same time, developing strong local talent makes us a stronger company by bringing different perspectives into our organisation, deepening our understanding of the environment in which we operate and strengthening our ability to contribute to the UAE healthcare ecosystem over the long term,” added Aherdan.

Open to UAE nationals who graduated in 2025 or 2026 from scientific disciplines including pharmacy, biochemistry, biology and related fields, Nujoom Al Ghad has been designed to provide participants with both functional experience and a broader understanding of the pharmaceutical industry.

The rotational structure will give participants broad exposure to the different functions that shape the medicines business, helping them understand how scientific innovation is translated into real-world impact for patients and healthcare systems. By working across multiple teams, participants will build practical experience, develop cross-functional capabilities and gain a rounded understanding of the pharmaceutical industry.

For Lilly, the programme will also establish a sustainable pipeline of Emirati talent as the company continues to strengthen its presence and capabilities in the UAE.

The initiative supports the UAE’s Emiratisation and national workforce development agenda, while contributing to the development of specialised national expertise within the healthcare sector.

At the end of the programme, successful participants will have a clear pathway from graduate development into longer-term careers within the company.