Training programme hones diplomatic skills

The Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, in collaboration with the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, held a two-day specialised Diplomatic Protocol and Etiquette training programme, bringing together 21 senior government officials from 16 government and semi-government entities in Sharjah, as part of its efforts to strengthen institutional professionalism and leadership readiness for high-level diplomatic and official engagement.

Spanning two days, the programme strengthened participants’ formal and diplomatic engagement skills by deepening their understanding and application of diplomatic protocol and etiquette in official and multicultural environments, supporting high-quality institutional representation and professional working relationships grounded in respect, precision and cultural awareness.

The training equipped participants with advanced practical skills in official communication and formal address, including the correct use of titles and the planning and organisation of official events and visits.

It strengthened their ability to apply protocol principles, professional etiquette, and diplomatic courtesy; manage relationships in formal meetings and interviews; and uphold international standards of diplomatic conduct across professional settings.

Commenting on the course, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, said: “The Diplomatic Protocol and Etiquette course reflects our commitment to developing leaders capable of representing Sharjah with professionalism and diplomatic awareness, in line with the culturally diverse and complex nature of contemporary government relations. Mastery of protocol and etiquette is central to strengthening institutional image and ensuring consistent, professional representation across official platforms.”

He added: “Our collaboration with the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy supports the DGR’s strategic focus on specialised, expertise-driven leadership development, underscoring a shared commitment to investing in leadership capabilities and enhancing institutional readiness for the demands of government and diplomatic work.”

The first day covered core protocol and diplomatic concepts, including types of official visits, international conference protocol, and precedence and seating arrangements, all central to the precise management of official events.

Day two focused on the practical application of etiquette, including greetings, handshakes and introductions, the exchange of business cards, the use of perfumes, flags and official photographs, as well as dress code, table etiquette and professional appearance, sharpening participants’ awareness of behavioural details that directly influence formal interaction and institutional representation.