The World Bank Group (WBG) Explorers Program 2026 is now accepting applications for one of the organization’s newest global talent initiatives designed to cultivate the next generation of development professionals. This prestigious two-year international programme offers young, high-potential professionals from eligible donor and developed countries the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working on real-world development projects across World Bank Group country offices around the globe.

Through an immersive, professionally supported experience, participants will contribute directly to development initiatives while expanding their global perspective, strengthening technical skills, and building careers dedicated to addressing some of the world’s most pressing economic, environmental, and social challenges.

Applications for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) donor cycle are currently open and will close on 15 July 2026.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the WBG Explorers Program 2026, including its objectives, programme features, eligibility requirements, available assignments, benefits, application process, and why it represents an outstanding career opportunity for aspiring international development professionals.

What Is the WBG Explorers Program?

The World Bank Group Explorers Program is an international talent programme created by the World Bank Group to connect outstanding young professionals from donor and developed countries with the organization’s mission of ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity.

The programme enables participants to gain direct exposure to World Bank Group operations by working on development projects across various sectors while living and working in WBG Country Offices around the world.

Beyond professional development, the programme seeks to develop future leaders who will become lifelong advocates for international development and the World Bank Group’s mission.

Participants contribute meaningfully to projects while gaining valuable international experience that strengthens both technical expertise and leadership capacity.

Objectives of the WBG Explorers Program

The programme has several key objectives:

• Connect talented young professionals with the World Bank Group’s development mission.
• Build future global development leaders.
• Provide practical experience working on international development projects.
• Strengthen understanding of global development challenges.
• Create ambassadors who will continue supporting sustainable development throughout their careers.
• Foster cross-cultural collaboration and international professional networks.

Programme Features

The WBG Explorers Program has been carefully designed to provide a structured and highly practical learning experience.

Participants receive:

Two-Year Extended Term Contract (ETC)

Successful applicants receive a two-year Extended Term Contract (ETC) with the World Bank Group.

The contract allows participants to gain substantial professional experience rather than short-term exposure, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to development operations.

Country Office Placement

Unlike many international programmes that are based at headquarters, WBG Explorers are placed directly within World Bank Group Country Offices around the world.

Participants work alongside experienced professionals implementing projects where development challenges are being addressed firsthand.

Headquarters-based placements are not included in this programme.

Hands-on Development Work

Explorers work on real projects aligned with their academic background, technical expertise, and professional interests.

Assignments may involve:

• Economic analysis
• Infrastructure development
• Agriculture
• Water resource management
• Digital transformation
• Environmental sustainability
• Investment operations
• Artificial Intelligence
• Nature finance
• Inclusive conservation
• Financial analysis
• Policy development
• Regional development initiatives

Participants contribute directly to ongoing World Bank Group operations while learning from experienced development practitioners.

Mentorship

Each Explorer is paired with a:

• Task Team Leader, or
• World Bank Group Manager

Mentors provide:

• Professional guidance
• Technical supervision
• Career advice
• Performance feedback
• Opportunities for learning and growth

This structured mentorship is one of the programme’s major strengths.

Cohort-Based Learning

The programme follows a cohort model with annual recruitment.

Participants benefit from:

• Customized onboarding
• Peer learning
• Cross-country collaboration
• Networking with fellow Explorers
• Shared professional development experiences

Professional Growth

The programme emphasizes continuous learning through:

• Exposure to multidisciplinary teams
• Collaboration across World Bank institutions
• Practical problem-solving
• International teamwork
• Global development operations

Learn more about the program features HERE

Funding and Benefits

The WBG Explorers Program is fully funded through a donor-funded Trust Fund.

Participants receive:

• Two-year paid employment contract
• Competitive salary
• Standard Extended Term Contract (ETC) benefits
• Structured mentorship
• International work experience
• Exposure to World Bank Group operations
• Professional development opportunities
• Global networking
• Hands-on experience solving development challenges

Areas of Work

Applicants can apply for opportunities across numerous sectors, including:

• Economic Policy
• Economics
• Finance
• Investment
• Agriculture
• Water Resources
• Land and Geospatial
• Digital Development
• Artificial Intelligence Integration
• Environmental and Social Development
• Business Administration
• Accounting
• Information Technology
• Nature Finance
• Inclusive Conservation

These assignments allow participants to develop specialized expertise while contributing to sustainable development.

Available Duty Stations

The 2026 recruitment cycle includes opportunities in numerous World Bank Group Country Offices worldwide.

Available locations include:

Africa

• Johannesburg, South Africa
• Pretoria, South Africa
• Lagos, Nigeria

Middle East

• Amman, Jordan

Europe

• Belgrade, Serbia
• Bucharest, Romania
• Tirana, Albania
• Tbilisi, Georgia

Latin America and the Caribbean

• Brasilia, Brazil
• São Paulo, Brazil
• Bogota, Colombia
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Panama City, Panama
• Santiago, Chile

Multi-country Investment Positions

Some investment roles may be based in:

• Johannesburg
• Lagos
• Istanbul
• Mumbai
• São Paulo
• Panama City

depending on organizational needs.

Available Fields

Current opportunities include positions in:

1. Economic Policy
2. Land and Geospatial
3. Digital Development
4. Water
5. Economics
6. Agriculture
7. AI Integration
8. Nature Finance and Inclusive Conservation
9. Investment
10. Environmental and Social Development
11. Finance
12. Business Administration
13. Accounting
14. Information Technology

Who Can Apply?

The World Bank Group seeks talented individuals with strong academic backgrounds and a genuine interest in international development.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Intellectual curiosity
• Innovation
• Initiative
• Professionalism
• Commitment to development
• Strong communication skills
• Analytical thinking
• Teamwork
• Ability to manage multiple priorities
• International mobility

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy the following requirements.

Education

Candidates must hold:

• A bachelor’s degree.

Professional Profile

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong interest in development work
• Self-motivation
• Sense of urgency
• Innovation
• Intellectual curiosity
• Strong analytical ability
• Excellent written communication
• Strong verbal communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Team collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines
• International mobility

Nationality

Applicants must be nationals of eligible donor or developed countries participating in the programme.

Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Fluency in English.

Learn more about the program eligibility HERE.

Programme Timeline

The programme follows an annual recruitment cycle.

Typical schedule:

• Applications open annually
• Application review
• Candidate selection
• Onboarding around September

Application Deadline

For the 2026 UAE recruitment cycle, applications close on:

15 July 2026

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the Official World Bank Group Careers Portal.

Applicants should:

1. Review available vacancies.
2. Identify positions matching their qualifications.
3. Prepare required application documents.
4. Submit an online application before the deadline.
5. Monitor communication regarding recruitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Applicants often ask about:

• Programme objectives
• Eligibility requirements
• Contract duration
• Country office placements
• Benefits
• Mentorship
• Assignment process
• Project types
• Career progression
• Funding
• Application procedures

The World Bank Group provides additional guidance through its official Frequently Asked Questions section.

Why Apply for the WBG Explorers Program?

The WBG Explorers Program provides far more than international work experience.

Participants gain:

• Direct exposure to global development operations.
• Practical experience solving complex international challenges.
• Mentorship from experienced World Bank professionals.
• Experience working across cultures.
• Professional networks spanning multiple countries.
• Opportunities to strengthen technical and leadership skills.
• A deeper understanding of sustainable development.
• A strong foundation for future careers in international organizations, government, finance, consulting, and development institutions.

For ambitious young professionals seeking meaningful international careers, the programme offers an exceptional pathway into one of the world’s leading multilateral development organizations.

Visit HERE for more information about the World Bank Group (WBG) Explorers Program 2026.

Conclusion

The World Bank Group Explorers Program 2026 represents a unique opportunity for talented young professionals from eligible donor and developed countries to launch or accelerate a career in international development. Through a fully funded two-year Extended Term Contract, participants gain practical experience in World Bank Group Country Offices, receive mentorship from experienced leaders, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to projects that improve lives around the world.

With placements available across Africa, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and other regions, the programme offers unparalleled exposure to global development challenges while helping participants build the technical expertise, leadership skills, and international networks needed for long-term success.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the available positions carefully, identify the opportunities that best match their academic and professional background, and submit their applications before the 15 July 2026 deadline.

Discover more global Job and Early Career Talent Program opportunities on OFY HERE.