Around 100 workers and private companies were honored in the third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award (ELMA), held in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. Organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the award highlights best practices and recognizes exceptional workers and companies in the UAE labor market.
This year, the award has expanded to include 98 winners, up from 84 in the second edition, with a total prize value of AED 50 million, up from AED 37 million in the previous edition.
For the individual awards, first-place winners will receive a cash prize of AED 100,000, followed by AED 75,000 for second place and AED 50,000 for third.
Companies that secured first place are classified in the first category of the MoHRE’s classification system and will benefit from discounts on the Ministry’s services, corresponding to financial savings of up to AED 1.2 million. Companies awarded second place will receive similar benefits with financial savings of up to AED 1 million, while the third-place companies will enjoy financial savings of AED 500,000.
A new subcategory has been introduced this year under ‘Labour Accommodations’ to encourage companies to implement sustainable and recreational initiatives and practices for their workers, particularly during national and Eid holidays.
MoHRE underscored that organizing such activities boosts productivity, promotes positive values, and fosters a sense of belonging among workers.
“They are seen as valuable contributors to a society rooted in compassion, loyalty, and unity — all while ensuring compliance with laws that protect workers’ rights and support their well-being and quality of life,” MoHRE added.
The Emirates Labour Market Award is held annually under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
