The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has officially opened the application window for the third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award, inviting companies and individuals to apply through the official portal: riyada.mohre.gov.ae. The deadline to submit entries is 31 August 2025.
Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the award celebrates excellence and innovation in the private sector labour market. It aims to recognise companies that implement outstanding employment practices and individuals who contribute meaningfully to the workforce.
What is the Emirates Labour Market Award?
The Emirates Labour Market Award is the UAE’s first award of its kind dedicated to honouring excellence in human resources and labour market practices. It highlights employers and employees who go above and beyond in areas such as:
- Recruitment and empowerment
- Occupational health and safety
- Creativity and innovation
- Talent attraction
- Labour relations and wages
- Corporate social responsibility
All applications are evaluated by expert panels according to strict criteria and competitiveness benchmarks. Winners will be honoured at a prestigious MoHRE-hosted ceremony in November 2025.
More Winners, Bigger Rewards
This year’s edition will recognise nearly 100 winners, up from 84 in the previous edition. Prizes include:
- Cash rewards for individuals
- Exclusive benefits for companies, such as enhanced access to MoHRE services and financial incentives that can reduce operational costs
These rewards aim to not only recognise success but also encourage continued excellence and compliance with UAE labour regulations.
New for 2025: Focus on Worker Wellbeing & Sustainable Entertainment
A new subcategory has been introduced this year under the Labour Accommodations category, focusing on sustainable recreational initiatives for workers, particularly during holidays and festive events. The goal is to:
- Promote worker wellbeing and productivity
- Foster a culture of belonging, loyalty, and unity
- Reinforce values of compassion and social responsibility
- Encourage compliance with worker welfare regulations
Award Categories and Criteria
The Emirates Labour Market Award is divided into five main categories, each with specific criteria and subcategories:
1. Establishments Category – 40 Winners
Recognises companies demonstrating excellence in:
- Talent management
- Innovation
- Empowerment and future readiness
- Worker wellbeing and legal compliance
2. Outstanding Workforce – 30 Winners
Honours individuals in three subcategories:
- Skilled Workforce: Recognised for achievements, upskilling, and social contribution
- Workers at Other Professional Levels
- Domestic Workers: Celebrated for dedication and community contribution
Nominations can be submitted by employers, families, or the public.
3. Labour Accommodations – 10 Winners
Awards companies that:
- Maintain high-quality housing for workers
- Organise sustainable wellbeing and entertainment programmes
4. Business Services Partners – 3 Winners
Celebrates top performers in:
- Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices
- Employment Agencies
- Business Service Centres
These winners are chosen for their excellence in delivering recruitment and business services, and in fostering positive client and worker relations.
5. Special Recognition – 15 Winners
Split into two subcategories:
- Pioneering Companies (12 winners): Recognised for leadership in implementing key national initiatives like:
- Unemployment Insurance
- Savings Scheme
- Health Insurance
- Educational and training collaborations
- Influencers (3 winners): Honoured for public contributions in promoting awareness of UAE labour laws and workforce initiatives
Why This Award Matters
The Emirates Labour Market Award isn’t just about recognition—it’s about elevating standards across the UAE’s private sector. Through this initiative, MoHRE continues its mission to:
- Create a more competitive and attractive labour market
- Encourage responsible corporate practices
- Inspire workers and companies to achieve greater success
- Improve the overall quality of work life in the UAE
How to Apply
Interested participants—whether companies or individuals—can submit their applications online at:
🗓️ Deadline: 31 August 2025
Don’t miss the opportunity to be recognised as a trailblazer in the UAE’s evolving labour landscape!