The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced that it has received over 18,000 applications to participate in the third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award, marking an impressive increase of nearly 134% compared to the previous edition, which saw around 7,700 applications.
The significant rise in applications reflects the award’s growing importance and credibility among companies and individuals, as well as its pivotal role in encouraging businesses to meet the award’s excellence standards, enhance their operational models, and ensure compliance with legislation.
The Emirates Labour Market Award is the first of its kind in the country that honours pioneering and distinguished practices in the labour market with categories recognising private-sector companies and outstanding workers. The award gains further prominence given that since its inception, it has been held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
The surge in applications also reflects the successful expansion of the award in its current edition, covering all key areas of the labour market. Notably, a new subcategory was introduced this year under the Labour Accommodations category, aimed at encouraging companies to adopt sustainable recreational initiatives and activities for employees, particularly during national occasions and holidays. These initiatives not only enhance productivity but also foster positive values among workers and strengthen their sense of community belonging. In addition, the number of winners has been increased to 100, up from 84 in the second edition.
“The Emirates Labour Market Award continues to cement its position as a model for competitiveness in the labour market, reporting exceptional turnout and a significant increase in applications every year,” said Dalal Al Shehhi, Director of Strategy and Future Department at MoHRE. “This highlights the award’s fundamental role in motivating companies and the workforce, and in fostering a competitive work environment that reinforces the UAE’s leadership as the best place in the world to live, work, and invest.”
“The award supports integration and partnership with the private sector, serving as a platform for embedding social responsibility across all aspects of the workplace. It plays a vital role in supporting the long-term success and sustainability of businesses while recognising their outstanding practices in alignment with UAE Vision 2031.” she added.
The award’s specialised committees have begun conducting technical and on-site evaluations of the participants, applying advanced governance models and clear criteria characterised by transparency and integrity, in preparation for announcing the winners and honouring them this upcoming November.
The evaluation phase follows the closing of nominations on 31 August. The award includes five categories: Establishments, Workforce, Labour Accommodations, Business Services Partners, and Special Recognition.
Winning companies receive a range of benefits, including classification in the first category under the Ministry’s establishment classification system, as well as discounts on Ministry services and priority in processing transactions. Meanwhile, individual winners are awarded valuable financial and in-kind prizes.