International Partner of the Year Award

Celebrating Global Partners

Congratulations to our International Partner of the Year: Al-Futtaim

Al-Futtaim’s Automotive Talent Centre, established in 2023 as an IMI Approved Centre after significant investment in training and development, equipping its workforce for the shift to electric and alternative fuel vehicles. The centre has trained over 1,500 employees in 2024 in IMI Level 1 Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Awareness, with plans to certify 1,500 more in 2025.

Key initiatives include:

• EV Training Expansion: Over 1000 users have registered for IMI EV certification, with 147 achieving advanced Technical Levels 2-4.
• Local First responder EV 2.2 Training: Civil Defence and Police forces are trained to handle EV emergencies safely and efficiently.
• Launch of EV Photocard System: Associates working with high-voltage vehicles are now required to carry verifiable ID cards.
• IMI TechSafe Campaign: This initiative promotes EV safety and aligns with sustainability goals like COP 28 and the local Net-Zero campaign.
• Professional Recognition: IMI certifications for Sales and Technical roles, creating a unified standard across brands.

Al-Futtaim Automotive Talent Centre's dedication to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement has made a significant impact on the automotive industry. Its comprehensive approach ensures a skilled workforce, enhances safety, and reinforces IMI as the industry standard, making it a strong contender for the IMI International Partner of the Year Award.

Congratulations to our shortlisted finalists:

Karwa Academy Karwa Academy successfully trained over 850 Bus Captains, Limousine, and Taxi Drivers, along with 125 workshop technicians in 2024. The Academy aims to train an additional 2,000 professionals in 2025. As an IMI-approved centre, it plays a pivotal role in advancing Qatar’s Vision 2030 by equipping the workforce with the skills needed to support the country’s transition to sustainable and electric transportation.

Valeo Training Service With a curriculum offering 120 hours of training, including 50 hours on Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Hybrid technologies, and 24 hours on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Valeo Tech Academy+ ensures that repairers are equipped with the latest industry knowledge. Their flexible online modules and hands-on training using advanced simulators offer a unique blend of theoretical and practical learning, covering all brands and automotive systems. IMI-certified courses further validate the expertise of participants, empowering them to excel in the evolving automotive landscape. The Valeo Tech Academy’s commitment to upskilling mechanics in emerging technologies (DMF, DDC, DWC, Headlamps...) and particularly EV & Hybrid, as ADAS, is helping shape the future of the industry.