UAE Launches Third Emirates Labour Market Award with AED50 Million Prize Pool

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has launched the third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award 2025—an initiative that honours excellence across the UAE's private sector and workforce.
Recognised as the first of its kind in the country, the award celebrates outstanding companies and workers who set benchmarks in human resource practices and workplace innovation. This year, the initiative has expanded to recognise 98 winners, up from 84, with total prizes reaching AED50 million—marking a significant increase from AED37 million in 2024.
A notable addition to this edition is a new subcategory under the 'Labour Accommodations' category, encouraging companies to invest in sustainable and recreational initiatives for employees, especially during national holidays. This move aims to foster workplace belonging, enhance productivity, and reinforce the UAE's values of compassion and unity.
Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, emphasised the award's role in driving sustainable development, competitiveness, and innovation across the labour market, which has achieved global leadership in nine competitive indicators.
The award spans five main categories, including Establishments, Outstanding Workforce, Labour Accommodations, Business Services Partners, and Special Recognition. Winning companies receive substantial incentives such as MoHRE service discounts of up to AED1.2 million and priority access to premium customer service. Individuals can win up to AED100,000.
Applications are open at riyada.mohre.gov.ae until August 31, with winners to be honoured at a prestigious ceremony in November. Evaluation will be conducted by specialised committees based on rigorous criteria promoting excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.
News Source: Emirates News Agency

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

Al Etihad

a day ago

• Al Etihad

CBUAE organises Climate Forum, ‘Network for Greening the Financial System' meeting in Abu Dhabi

19 June 2025 20:14 ABU DHABI (WAM)Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE), the CBUAE is organising its first Climate Forum and a meeting of the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resorts, Abu Dhabi, on June 26, two-day event demonstrates the CBUAE's commitment to driving sustainable finance and leading the transition towards a more sustainable financial system, in line with the UAE's vision to achieve net zero by Climate Forum brings together financial leaders, policymakers, international experts in sustainable finance and climate risks, and senior officials from regulatory bodies, central banks, and international financial aim is to exchange insights on ways to foster better integration of climate policies in risk management and investment and to explore effective solutions for enhancing financial sector resilience in the face of future climate and environmental will also address frameworks for activating regional and international cooperation in the areas of monetary policy, regulation and sustainable Islamic finance, thereby strengthening the complementary roles between the public and private sectors. This further underscores the UAE's growing position as a regional and international hub for leading the global dialogue on the future of sustainable NGFS meeting will be centred on 'greening' monetary policy frameworks. Discussions will focus on integrating climate change impacts into monetary policy formulation and operations, alongside reviewing the NGFS's latest work progress and plans. Since its inception in 2017, the NGFS has become a global force, uniting over 160 central banks and financial Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, said, "The convening of the Climate Forum and the Network for Greening the Financial System meeting marks a milestone amidst the global shifts in economic policies and the growing climate challenges. In line with the wise leadership's vision for the UAE and its commitment to achieving net zero by 2050, the CBUAE continues to solidify its pivotal role in spearheading financial sustainability." He added, "This is achieved by strengthening the green finance infrastructure and developing regulatory frameworks that support the integration of climate risks within the financial sector's ecosystem, thereby enhancing its resilience, reinforcing its stability, and achieving the desired balance between economic growth and sustainability."

Hi Dubai

2 days ago

• Hi Dubai

UAE Approves AED1.2 Billion in Housing Support as Part of Bold National Housing Push

The UAE has approved AED1.2 billion in housing support for 1,838 citizens in the first half of 2025, reaffirming its commitment to improving quality of life and strengthening social stability through the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme. Since its inception, the programme has delivered AED50 billion in housing support, benefiting more than 93,000 Emiratis. The initiative is part of the country's long-term strategy to empower families and drive sustainable urban development. The UAE Cabinet has also rolled out a new financing policy for the programme extending to 2041. The plan targets 40,000 housing support decisions in four phases, with 13,000 in the first phase alone at an estimated AED11.5 billion. The new model integrates federal funding with support from national banks, easing the financial load on the treasury while offering more flexible financing options for citizens. Between 2021 and 2024, the programme recorded a 50% cut in processing time for support decisions and increased homeownership among Emiratis to 91% — a 17% rise since 2017. Private sector contributions now account for 76% of housing funding. Complementary initiatives such as the 'Flexible Loan' and 'Reuse of Housing Assistance Value' offer tailored financial solutions, while the award-winning 'Manzili' bundle has drastically reduced red tape, saving millions of work hours and slashing emissions. In a further show of global leadership, the UAE has been elected President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly and secured a seat on its Executive Board, strengthening its voice in international housing and urban development efforts. News Source: Emirates News Agency

Sharjah 24

3 days ago

• Sharjah 24

Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE 5th in 2025 IMD Competitiveness Index

The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; His Highness. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; and His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior. UAE's global competitiveness performance During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the UAE's advancement in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, where the country secured 5th place globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 points. This achievement places the UAE among leading nations in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, legislative strength, and business environment excellence. The UAE's ranking has improved from 28th in 2009 to 5th in 2025, reflecting significant progress over the past 14 years. Key indicators of competitiveness The IMD report assesses countries based on four main factors: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure. The UAE excelled in several areas, ranking 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy index, 2nd in government policies adaptability index, and 4th in government efficiency index. Additionally, the UAE led 113 global indicators, including employment rate, absence of bureaucracy, availability of global expertise, digital transformation in companies, venture capital, inbound mobility of higher education students, public-private partnerships, energy infrastructure, and female parliamentary representation. Cabinet approves housing grants The Cabinet approved housing grants for over 1,838 citizens in the first half of the current year, totaling AED 1.2 billion. This initiative aims to ensure decent housing and enhance family stability across the UAE. Emirates Council for Balanced Development initiatives The Cabinet reviewed the results and activities of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Council continues to implement projects and forge national partnerships to develop Emirati villages economically, socially, and as tourist destinations. Its initiatives have created meaningful opportunities for families, young talent, and small business owners, ensuring that every part of the UAE benefits from the nation's developmental momentum. Digital Identity implementation The Cabinet reviewed the results of Digital Identity implementation in government transactions, which now has over 11 million registered users and has recorded more than 600 million logins. The unified integrated digital ecosystem for government services connects over 130 government entities and private sector organizations, facilitating 2.6 billion digital transactions efficiently, accurately, and swiftly. Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing measures The Cabinet approved the restructuring of the Higher Committee Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Committee has made strides in advancing national policies and strengthening measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing across the country. It will continue its work to ensure the UAE remains a global leader in combating these issues. Establishment of National Maritime Navigation Centre The Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Centre under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The new center will manage and operate the Integrated National Maritime System for monitoring maritime traffic, oversee the National Maritime Single Window, and enhance the safety and security of the maritime sector. It will also activate and develop mechanisms to prevent harmful practices, protect the UAE's marine life, and advance the sector through conducting scientific research and studies. Free trade agreements and foreign Trade growth The Cabinet approved the 2024 Annual Report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations, highlighting the signing and conclusion of 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) with strategic global economies, 8 of which have already come into force. These agreements have driven the UAE's foreign trade volume to an unprecedented AED 5.23 trillion in 2024. The UAE's non-oil exports reached a historic milestone, exceeding AED 440 billion in 2023, marking a 16.3% growth compared to 2022 and a remarkable 83% increase from 2019. Re-exports also reached a record AED 684.3 billion, with a 6.3% growth compared to 2022. Additionally, the UAE attracted AED 113 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI) in 2023, reinforcing its position as a global trade hub. Cultural and community development projects The Cabinet reviewed the year 2024 achievements of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Highlights included the completion of major projects in Qidfa, such as the waterfront development, Palm Walk, and cycling tracks. Strategic projects were also initiated in Masfout, including Marble Park, a Ladies' Club, Friday Market, and restoration of Al Sharia and Al Falaj areas as cultural landmarks. The first phase of the Al Sila' Waterfront development project exceeded an 87% completion rate, while plans for Al Rams included several initiatives, such as building a community council, developing the marina and corniche, and advancing ecotourism plans. "Jothoor" initiative empowering female artisans The Council launched the "UAE Villages Councils" programme, creating ten integrated community councils and distinct digital branding for each village under the initiative "Jothoor" (Roots) to empower female artisans in the UAE. Several cultural festivals and local market initiatives were organized, attracting over 206,000 visitors, supporting 171 families, and engaging 790 volunteers. "Make it in the Emirates" platform success The Cabinet reviewed the achievements of the fourth edition of the "Make it in the Emirates" platform (2025). This initiative attracted over 122,000 visitors and participants, facilitated AED 168 billion in potential procurement agreements to localize the manufacturing of 4,800 products. Agreements worth AED 11 billion were signed for industrial projects, alongside AED 40 billion in financing solutions over five years to support SMEs. A new category, the "UAE Traditional Crafts," was introduced to recognize individuals and organizations excelling in traditional Emirati crafts. Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme The Cabinet reviewed a report on the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, which highlighted the federal government housing decisions issued during the first half of 2025. The total number of decisions issued during that period reached 1,838, with a total value exceeding AED 1.25 billion. Cultural heritage law and environmental initiatives The Cabinet approved drafting a federal law to safeguard the UAE's cultural heritage. The law will enhance awareness, support intangible heritage, and align national efforts with international best practices. The Cabinet also restructured the UAE Council for Climate Action to oversee the implementation of the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy and promote carbon market systems. The UAE added nine sites to the global list of biodiversity hotspots and launched a roadmap to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. Protected areas were expanded by an 18% increase for mainland reserves and a 12% increase for marine reserves. International agreements and diplomatic engagements The Cabinet approved the ratification of 13 international agreements and protocols, including partnerships with Montenegro on tourism, real estate, and economic cooperation; Vietnam on a comprehensive economic partnership; Uganda on mutual visa exemptions; and New Zealand on investment promotion. Agreements were also signed with Eswatini, the Central African Republic, Kenya, Peru, Nigeria, and Jordan. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the negotiation and signing of 36 international agreements and memoranda of understanding, including agreements with Hong Kong on legal assistance, Montenegro on energy cooperation, and the Eurasian Economic Union on economic partnerships. Expansion of diplomatic presence New embassies will be established in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, alongside a UAE Consulate General in Miami, USA. Participation in international events The Cabinet endorsed the UAE's participation in 13 international events in countries such as Malaysia and Ethiopia. The UAE will also host key summits, including the Annual Summit of the Central Banks Data Cooperation Group. Accession to international organisations Additionally, the Cabinet approved the UAE's accession to the International Competition Network, the OECD Forum on Tax Administration, and the Svalbard Treaty, alongside participation in the International Legal Forum in St. Petersburg.