UAE organisations have been recognised for workplace initiatives spanning artificial intelligence, employee learning, flexible working and Emiratisation at the Employee Happiness Awards UAE 2026.
UAE workplace initiatives recognised
The fourth edition of the Employee Happiness Awards, organised by Eventyst Global, brought together more than 300 guests at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai.
The awards received more than 300 submissions across 29 company and individual categories, with more than 140 companies reaching the finalist stage. Entries were assessed by 38 independent jury members based on their rationale, execution and demonstrated impact, according to the organisers.
The awards highlighted initiatives aimed at improving employee development, workplace culture and organisational performance.
Companies recognised for HR and employee development
Several UAE organisations received Gold awards for their workplace programmes and human resources initiatives.
Air Arabia won Gold for Best Use of Technology to Drive Learning Initiatives, while EDGE Group was recognised for Best Use of Technology and AI in HR.
Other winners included:
- Apparel Group: Best Internship Programme
- Etihad Water and Electricity: Best Company to Work For – Large
- Knowledge and Human Development Authority: Best Flexible Working Program
- Dubai Holding Community Management: Best L&D Strategy
- Emirates Islamic: Excellence in Emiratisation
The categories covered areas ranging from workplace flexibility and staff training to the use of technology in human resources.
Community programmes and employee growth
Berkeley Services UAE received Gold for Best Community Impact Initiative, recognising its work on inclusion and sustainability through 14 corporate social responsibility programmes.
Karl-Heinz Otto Mair, CEO of Berkeley Services, said: “We are proud to receive this recognition at the EHA UAE 2026. As a people centric business, our people are at the heart of everything we do, and their well-being remains a priority. Operating in the built environment, we touch lives every day, and through our teams, strategic partnerships and community initiatives, we strive to create a positive and lasting impact on the people and communities we serve.”
Dubai Holding Community Management was also recognised for its learning and development strategy.
Omair Ibrahim, Executive Director, Human Capital and Corporate Services, said: “Being recognized across four categories at the Employee Happiness Awards 2026 is a proud milestone for Dubai Holding Community Management. This achievement reflects our commitment to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, empowered, and inspired to grow. We believe that investing in our people is fundamental to building a high-performing, future-ready organization.”
Emirates Islamic received Gold for Excellence in Emiratisation, with the bank also highlighting recognition in the Leadership Succession category.
Farida Mohammed Rafi, Chief Human Resources Officer at Emirates Islamic, said: “Emirates Islamic is delighted to receive these recognitions at the Employee Happiness Awards UAE 2026. Our achievements across the Emiratisation and Leadership Succession categories reflect our continued commitment to fostering a people-first culture at the bank.”
Employee Happiness Awards expand beyond the UAE
Launched in the UAE in 2023, the awards platform has since expanded to Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Malaysia. Its first Singapore and Malaysia edition took place in 2026, while its second Saudi Arabia edition is underway.
Jatin Deepchandani, CEO of Eventyst Global, said: “The overwhelming participation and remarkable initiatives showcased at this year’s Employee Happiness Awards reflect a growing commitment among organisations to putting people at the heart of their success. What makes this recognition truly meaningful is the dedication, innovation and measurable impact behind each initiative. As EHA continues to grow across borders, our vision remains to celebrate these achievements, inspire meaningful conversations and bring together a global community committed to building happier, more inclusive and future-ready workplaces.”
