Khazna Data Centers, a UAE-based hyperscale digital infrastructure provider best known for building the upcoming Stargate UAE AI factory, has now announced the launch of Thuraya, a structured graduate program for developing data center talent. Designed in partnership with the International Data Center Authority (IDCA), a global independent Digital Economy think tank, the program is built to prepare early-career talent for roles across engineering, special projects and Khazna NexOps, Khazna’s in-house organization for mission-critical data center operations.
According to a press release, Thuraya functions as a data center finishing school for new graduates, combining technical foundations with supervised, hands-on exposure in data center environments. The program will run for a full year and is built to support Khazna’s competency-based operating model, where training outcomes and assessments are directly connected to operational execution and role 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.”
Hassan Alnaqbi, CEO, Khazna Data Centers, said, “Thuraya is a practical investment in the people who will run the infrastructure behind the AI economy. 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.”
Thuraya will include structured learning modules, evaluations, and applied assignments aligned to real design-build-operate workflows. Participants will progress through core topics spanning data center design, safety practices, operational procedures, and incident readiness, supported by assessments that validate competence before graduates take on critical tasks.
“Building in-house capability at scale requires a consistent approach to learning and certification,” said Gabriella Planojevic, Learning & Talent Management Director, Khazna Data Centers. “Thuraya helps us attract and develop early-career talent, accelerate readiness, and maintain the high bar required for mission-critical environments.”
Thuraya is part of Khazna’s broader commitment to building talent and strengthening operational resilience as AI workloads accelerate and infrastructure requirements become more demanding.