Beyond the Welcome is Aldar Education’s annual orientation event for educators joining the network at the start of each school year. On 29 August 2026, more than 400 new teachers gathered at Yasmina British Academy in Abu Dhabi for a full day of Emirati cultural programming, leadership sessions, recognition, and a formal welcome into the Aldar community — marking the beginning of the 2026–27 academic year.

Mirror filmed the event and produced the highlight film. The programme brought together speakers on Emirati identity and culture — including H.E. Abdullah Al Maainah, designer of the UAE national flag — alongside a formal welcome address and recognition moments throughout the day at the academy.