Dubai: Dubai on Saturday launched the world’s first points-based award programme for recognising excellence in labour welfare practices.
The ‘Taqdeer’ award, which means appreciation in Arabic, was launched by Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council.
The Taqdeer award seeks to promote best labour welfare practices in the emirate and to ensure these practices are in line with global standards.
Focused on the construction sector in its first year, the programme invites companies to participate in the award by providing a comprehensive submission document, which will be thoroughly evaluated by a committee of judges. Based on the number of points they receive in the evaluation, companies will be awarded ratings ranging from one to five stars and the programme is open to Dubai-based companies in the construction sector that employ manual workers, a statement from Dubai Media Office said.
“Taqdeer is the latest addition to Dubai Government’s recognition programmes that celebrate excellence, innovation and creativity,” Shaikh Hamdan said.
“The award programme reflects the importance Dubai places on ensuring progressive labour practices in line with global standards. The new programme is consistent with the objectives of Dubai Plan 2021 to make Dubai a city of happy, empowered people.”
Shaikh Hamdan said the extensive evaluation framework of the award will encourage companies to aspire for high standards in management of labour relations. “We are confident that the award will help set new benchmarks for good labour practices across sectors and throughout the region,” he said, adding, “We are deeply committed to implementing the directives of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai to ensure happiness and welfare of the people of Dubai regardless of religion or nationality. Our objective is to realise Dubai’s vision of becoming one of the world’s best places to work and live [in].”
Shaikh Hamdan applauded the efforts of the UAE Ministry of Labour to help create a safe environment for labour: “Our country continues to enhance its legal framework for protecting labour rights and enhancing their quality of life. This award aims to improve relations between management and labour, which will serve to enhance productivity and loyalty.” The Crown Prince called on all eligible construction companies to participate in the award.
Abdullah Al Shaibani, Secretary General of the Dubai Executive Council said the award comes at a time when Dubai’s economic growth is gathering pace with the implementation of several mega projects, including the hosting of Expo 2020. This initiative will encourage construction companies to enhance productivity by improving labour welfare.
Apart from raising the quality of labour practices, the award programme will be instrumental in raising awareness among workers about their rights, Major General Obaid Mohair Bin Surour, Chairman of the Permanent Committee of Labour Affairs in Dubai and Deputy Director of the General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs said.
“In developing the award’s criteria, we looked at the highest international benchmarks in labour welfare, especially those endorsed by the Ministry of Labour and the International Labour Organisation,” he said, adding: “We also believe the award will be a strong incentive for companies to improve satisfaction and happiness among workers.”
Bin Surour added that the first edition of the award is focused on construction companies. However, future editions will include factories in free zones where over 500,000 workers are employed.
The Five Stars rating
Major General Bin Surour further said that the award programme is based on a comprehensive points system. Companies are given a score out of 1,000. The total points are distributed equally between Enabling Factors and Results, with a maximum of 500 points for each.
The highest rating of 5–stars is awarded to companies that obtain 700 points or more. Companies that obtain over 550 points receive a 4-star rating.
Winners of 5 and 4-star ratings will receive a certificate, enjoy priority in government projects, and will be honoured at an award ceremony to be held next year. Additionally, these top ratings will give companies a competitive advantage in bidding for international contracts.
