Khazna launches Thuraya graduate program to build AI economy talent

Khazna Data Centers has launched Thuraya, a year-long graduate development program created with the International Data Center Authority (IDCA) to train early-career talent for data center operations. The strategic significance extends beyond workforce development: as AI workloads accelerate demand for hyperscale infrastructure, companies that build strong operational capabilities in-house gain a competitive advantage through reduced risk and consistent service delivery.

The strategic logic behind talent investment

There is a straightforward way to understand Khazna's investment in Thuraya: data center operations are mission-critical, and the quality of service depends entirely on the people running the infrastructure. Previously, companies relied on external contractors or ad-hoc training. Khazna's partnership with IDCA has changed this by creating structured, competency-based development that directly connects training outcomes to operational readiness.

"Khazna has moved quickly to build real operational capability at scale, and this is a strong signal of that intent," said Mehdi Paryavi, Chairman and CEO of IDCA. "Programs like Thuraya matter because in-house teams are only as strong as the training behind them. This is how you develop consistent standards, reduce operational risk, and build the next generation of leaders for mission-critical infrastructure."

How the program works

Thuraya functions as what Khazna calls a "data center finishing school" — combining technical foundations with supervised, hands-on exposure across engineering, special projects, and Khazna NexOps operations. The year-long program includes structured learning modules, evaluations, and applied assignments aligned to real design-build-operate workflows.

Participants progress through core topics spanning data center design, safety practices, operational procedures, and incident readiness, with assessments that validate competence before graduates take on critical tasks. This competency-based approach ensures consistent standards and repeatable learning pathways.

"Building in-house capability at scale requires a consistent approach to learning and certification," said Gabriella Planojevic, Learning & Talent Management Director at Khazna Data Centers. "Thuraya helps us attract and develop early-career talent, accelerate readiness, and maintain the high bar required for mission-critical environments."

The AI economy connection

The timing reflects broader market dynamics in the UAE's digital infrastructure sector. As AI projects like G42's Stargate advance and hyperscale facilities expand, the talent requirements for operating high-density, mission-critical infrastructure have intensified.

"Thuraya is a practical investment in the people who will run the infrastructure behind the AI economy," said Hassan Alnaqbi, CEO of Khazna Data Centers. "It strengthens our model by accelerating capability development, embedding a culture of safety and discipline, and ensuring our teams are ready to operate at the service levels our customers expect."

This has fundamentally changed the competitive dynamics for data center operators. Companies that can deliver consistent uptime and performance through skilled in-house teams gain pricing power and customer loyalty in a market where service interruptions carry massive financial consequences.

Looking forward

The program represents Khazna's broader commitment to operational resilience as infrastructure requirements become more demanding. By building local talent capability, the company reduces dependence on external resources whilst creating career pathways that can attract top graduates to the sector.

Looking forward, this model suggests other hyperscale operators may need similar investments to compete effectively. The companies that can combine technical infrastructure with strong operational teams — developed through structured programs like Thuraya — will be best positioned to capture the growing demand for AI-ready data center services in the region.

Program details

The Thuraya program runs for one full year and targets new graduates seeking roles across engineering, special projects, and Khazna NexOps. Specific application details and intake numbers have not been disclosed. The program is part of Khazna's partnership with IDCA to create global standards for AI and cloud infrastructure training.

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