The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has officially launched the third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award, a nationwide initiative that aims to celebrate excellence and innovation in the UAE’s labour market. The award, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, is considered one of the most prestigious recognitions for private sector companies and distinguished workers in the country.
An Award Promoting Progress and Excellence
First launched in 2023, the Emirates Labour Market Award is the first initiative of its kind in the UAE. It recognises companies and individuals who demonstrate outstanding practices in workforce management, employee welfare, innovation, and labour rights. This year, the award has expanded to 98 winners—up from 84 last year—with a prize pool of AED 50 million, reflecting a significant increase from AED 37 million in the previous edition.
According to MoHRE, the award plays a crucial role in encouraging sustainable development, enhancing competitiveness, and showcasing the UAE labour market’s achievements, especially its global leadership in nine international competitiveness indicators.
Five Comprehensive Categories
The Emirates Labour Market Award 2025 includes the following five main categories:
- Establishments (40 winners): Recognise private companies with exemplary HR practices, workforce well-being, innovation, and compliance.
- Outstanding Workforce (30 winners): Rewards skilled professionals, general workers, and domestic workers for their achievements, learning, and social contributions.
- Labour Accommodations (10 winners): Highlights the best worker housing investments and initiatives that promote worker welfare and social cohesion.
- Business Services Partners (3 winners): Awards top-performing recruitment offices, employment agencies, and service centres.
- Special Recognition (15 winners): Includes awards for pioneering companies and influencers who promote awareness of UAE labour laws and rights.
New Focus on Worker Well-Being
A new subcategory under the Labour Accommodations category has been introduced this year to specifically reward companies that go beyond legal compliance by implementing recreational and social initiatives for their workers—especially during national holidays like Eid. These efforts are aimed at boosting morale, productivity, and loyalty among workers.
Exclusive Benefits for Winners
In addition to the monetary prizes, companies that win the award will be offered:
- Financial benefits of up to AED 1.2 million in discounts on MoHRE services
- MoHRE’s Diamond Tier customer service, which prioritises support and speeds up service delivery
- Opportunities for recognition and exposure on a national level
Individual winners will receive cash prizes:
- AED 100,000 for 1st place
- AED 75,000 for 2nd place
- AED 50,000 for 3rd place
Deadline for Participation
Private sector companies, workers, recruitment agencies, and other eligible applicants can submit their entries through the official platform: riyada.mohre.gov.ae. The submission deadline is August 31, 2025, and winners will be honored during a prestigious ceremony in November 2025.
(Source and inputs from Emirates Labour Market Award official website, edited by Harf staff)
