The Direct Support Diploma Program
Start Your Career With Employment and Training

The Direct Support Diploma Program
Start Your Career With Employment and Training

Overview

Direct Support Diploma Program

In partnership with the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF – Hadaf), the Higher Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (HTMi Saudi Arabia) offers the Direct Support Diploma Program, a unique employment-first training opportunity that combines practical workplace experience with specialized vocational education.

The program provides industry-focused diploma qualifications across a range of professional specializations, designed to meet the evolving needs of the Saudi labor market and equip trainees with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required for successful careers.

Upon successful completion, trainees receive certificates accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) and the Hotel and Tourism Management Institute (HTMi), Switzerland, enhancing their professional qualifications and career prospects.

Objectives

Contributing to raising the quality of the hospitality sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and enhancing its global excellence.

Enhancing cultural understanding in dealing with guests from different cultures and tourists coming to the Kingdom.

Develop the knowledge necessary to excel in various roles within the hospitality industry.

A unique employment-first training opportunity.

Preparing national talents for leadership roles in the hospitality sector.

Program tracks

Hotel Management Diploma - 2 years

160 beneficiaries

Tourism Management Diploma - 2 years

125 beneficiaries

Restaurant Management Diploma - 2 years

690 beneficiaries

Events Management Diploma - 2 years

75 beneficiaries

Culinary Arts Management Diploma - 2 years

650 beneficiaries

Program
Duration

24

months

 

• Be a Saudi national and possess a valid national identity.

• Be between 18 and 35 years old.

• Be a high school graduate as a minimum, achieving a minimum GPA of 60% across all cognitive ability tests.

• Must not be a student, employee of the public or private sectors, have a commercial record under the Ministry of Commerce, or receive a retirement pension.

• Be able to dedicate full-time availability to the program.

• Not have previously obtained a grant from HRDF.

• To be in good health.

• Submit all required documents during the registration stage.

Application Process

1. Application Review

2. Aptitude and English level test

3. Final Interview

4. Medical Tests

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the duration of the diploma program?

The Direct Support Diploma Program is a two-year (24-month) program, designed to equip trainees with the practical skills, professional knowledge, and industry experience required to build successful careers in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Yes. Trainees receive a monthly stipend of SAR 2,000 throughout the training period, providing financial support while they develop their professional skills and qualifications.

Accepted candidates sign an official employment contract with their respective employers, in accordance with Saudi Labor Law, prior to the commencement of the training program.

Accepted candidates sign an official employment contract with their respective employers, in accordance with Saudi Labor Law, prior to the commencement of the training program.

Yes. Upon successful completion of the program, trainees receive certificates accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) in Saudi Arabia and the Hotel and Tourism Management Institute (HTMi), Switzerland and THE-ICE.
These certifications recognize the professional knowledge and practical competencies acquired throughout the program.

Training is conducted at HTMi Saudi Arabia campuses in Riyadh, Jazan, and Al-Baha, depending on the program and available training opportunities.

Our campuses feature state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet international hospitality education standards and evolving labor market requirements. Trainees benefit from modern learning environments equipped with advanced technologies, specialized training facilities, and industry-relevant equipment for hospitality, tourism, and events services.

No. To be eligible for the program, applicants must not be: Currently employed in the public or private sector. Enrolled as students in an educational institution. Holders of an active commercial registration with the Ministry of Commerce.

Applicants must meet all applicable eligibility requirements before being accepted into the program.

The program is delivered entirely in person at HTMi Saudi Arabia campuses.

Trainees are required to attend on-site training sessions, participate in practical activities, and complete the program's academic and professional training requirements. This hands-on approach ensures they develop the skills and experience needed to succeed in the tourism and hospitality industry.

The training schedule consists of 5 hours per day, 5 days a week, for a total of 25 training hours per week.

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