MoHRE offers Dh50 million prize pool for the Emirates Labour Market Award

Dubai: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has launched the third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award, under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The prestigious award celebrates excellence in the UAE’s labour market, expanding to recognise 98 winners, up from 84 in previous editions. With a prize pool of Dh50 million, the 2025 edition introduces a new focus on sustainability, aiming to encourage businesses to implement initiatives that prioritise workers’ well-being and social responsibility.

The award

As the UAE’s first initiative of its kind, the award recognises outstanding practices in the labour market and celebrates the achievements of exceptional private sector companies and individual workers.

This year, the award has also increased its total prize value to Dh50 million — an increase from Dh37 million in 2024.

A significant enhancement in this year’s edition includes the introduction of a new subcategory under the ‘Labour Accommodations’ category, aimed at encouraging companies to implement sustainable and recreational initiatives for their workers. These initiatives are particularly important during national and Eid holidays, promoting worker well-being and enhancing productivity. By fostering positive values and creating a sense of belonging, these activities contribute to a more united and loyal workforce, while also ensuring full compliance with regulations protecting workers’ rights.

Symbol of excellence

Dr Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, expressed his deep appreciation for HH Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s continued support, which has played a pivotal role in the award’s growth and impact. “The Emirates Labour Market Award has become a symbol of excellence and leadership within the labour market. This third edition builds on the exceptional achievements of its predecessors, further encouraging competitiveness, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence across all sectors of the UAE’s labour market,” Al Awar said.

Al Awar said that the new developments in the award reflect MoHRE’s commitment to sustainable development, excellence, and innovation. The award’s evolution mirrors the UAE’s global leadership in nine key labour market indicators and its substantial growth in workforce and business participation. He urged both private sector companies and workers to seize the opportunity to showcase their achievements and contribute to the ongoing advancement of the UAE labour market.

The award features five main categories:

Establishments: This category will honour 40 companies for their exemplary human resource practices, focusing on employment, empowerment, talent attraction, work environment, innovation, and future readiness. Companies must meet the highest standards in compliance with labour market regulations.

Outstanding Workforce: Thirty winners will be recognised across three subcategories:

Skilled Workforce: For high-level professionals excelling in their fields.

Workers at Other Professional Levels: For workers in varied roles who demonstrate excellence.

Domestic Workers: Recognising contributions and commitment, with nominations possible from employers or families.

Labour Accommodations: Ten winners will be honoured for their investments in workers’ accommodations. A new subcategory rewards companies for implementing sustainable and recreational programs, fostering a positive work culture and employee loyalty.

Business Services Partners: This category includes three subcategories:

Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices: Recognising agencies with best practices in recruitment for domestic workers.

Employment Agencies: Honouring agencies that attract highly skilled talent.

Business Service Centres: For centres excelling in workforce empowerment and business services.

Special Recognition

Pioneering Company: Twelve organisations that have made a significant impact on the labour market.

Influencers: Three individuals who have contributed to promoting awareness of labour laws and initiatives.

Awards and benefits for winners

In addition to the prestige, winners in the ‘Establishments’ category will receive a range of benefits, including discounts on MoHRE services, with top winners receiving up to Dh1.2 million in savings. All winners will also gain access to MoHRE’s Diamond-tier customer service, which prioritises their needs and provides exclusive support.

For individual awardees, the first-place winner will receive a cash prize of Dh100,000, second place will receive Dh75,000, and third place will earn Dh50,000.

Application Process

Interested participants can submit their applications via the official website at riyada.mohre.gov.ae by August 31, 2025. Submissions will be evaluated by specialised committees based on criteria such as innovation, talent attraction, work environment, social responsibility, and compliance with labour standards.