All you need to know about the Taqdeer Awards
The Taqdeer Awards, an initiative of the Dubai Government, is a way to incentivise and motivate companies to excel in their respective fields whilst implementing best practice in labour rights. Dubai is a leading global hub of business. For corporations worldwide, it is an attractive place to set up their operations and expand into different regions. These awards are a way to keep companies and their employees pushing harder towards collaborative success.
ALL ABOUT THE TAQDEER AWARDS
Dubai’s development as a global business centre has been extraordinary. The local government has, admirably, kept pace by introducing relevant laws and regulations to monitor companies. Furthermore, the government has come up with ways to spur business growth and development in the region.
The Taqdeer Awards are an excellent example of outstanding leadership and vision. As per the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, these awards were introduced in 2016 for companies operating in the manufacturing sector, services sector and free zones in Dubai.
The event serves as a source of motivation for both the companies and their employees. Recognition at national level pushes everyone to work harder and more effectively to achieve their goals.
VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS
The strong vision statement is reflective of what the Dubai Government hopes to achieve with these awards:
“To recognise and reward companies that create and maintain world-class working conditions, and encourage other organisations to aspire to achieve the same high standards.”
Similarly, the mission statement outlines the goals with meticulousness.
“To ensure the welfare of employees, create greater job satisfaction and foster higher levels of productivity in a stimulating environment.”
TAQDEER AWARDS OBJECTIVES
The government aims to achieve the following objectives by promoting Taqdeer Awards:
- Make Dubai the most labour friendly place across the globe.
- Making UAE a global leader in the welfare of employees.
- Raise the standards and protections provided to labour.
- Raising productivity overall.
- Strengthen corporate relationship, i.e. between employees and employers.
- Enhancing the quality of life of workers.
- Recognising the efforts made by companies operating in the free zone, construction, services or manufacturing sector.
- Offering independent feedback to companies so they can enhance employee welfare programs and initiatives.
- Setting a benchmark for companies for greater achievements, which they can learn by following in the footsteps of the current award-winning companies.
- Promoting a culture of excellence in labour management.
The government hopes that companies can change their practices to pursue such awards leading to a positive change across sectors.
TAQDEER AWARD CRITERIA
Only companies belonging to specific industrial sectors are eligible for Taqdeer Awards. This includes:
- Building and construction
- Manufacturing
- Electrical-mechanical contractors
- Professional services
- Those working in a free zone
Furthermore, if you run or own a company in one of the aforementioned categories, it has to meet the following Taqdeer Awards criteria:
- Has a valid business licence to operate in Dubai from the relevant authority.
- A minimum of 100 employees are sponsored by the company and they are on its payroll.
- Company has been operational for at least 24 months.
FAQS
HOW ARE THE COMPANIES EVALUATED?
Companies must provide evidence of best employment practices as part of their application. Furthermore, they must meet the best global benchmarks for:
- Recruitment and wages
- Facilities and infrastructure
- Labour policies
- Creativity and innovation
- Labour security
- Labour perceptions
- Key performance indicators
- Health and safety
- Justice and transparency
- Communication and feedback
- Administration
An independent judging committee evaluates the company’s performance and gives a rating on a scale of 1 to 5.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF WINNING TAQDEER AWARDS?
Companies that receive a rating of 4 or 5 stars are given priority in government projects. Plus, they are honoured with certificates at a special event. Award winners also get a competitive advantage when securing international opportunities.
HOW TO APPLY FOR TAQDEER AWARDS?
You can apply for the Taqdeer Awards by submitting your application on the official website.
HOW TO CONTACT A TAQDEER AWARDS OFFICIAL?
You can call on +971-4-707-5005.
HAVE THE DATES FOR TAQDEER AWARDS 2021 BEEN ANNOUNCED?
No, Taqdeer Awards 2021 dates have not been announced. So for now, you can carry on building your case to increase your chances of winning.
WHAT OTHER AWARDS AND EVENTS CAN A COMPANY LOOK FORWARD IN 2021?
The UAE government is proactive in rewarding innovative business ideas and companies excelling in their respective fields. A similar example is the Zayed Sustainability Prize, which is open to companies operating outside of the UAE too. Perhaps the biggest event of the year is EXPO 2020. Groups of employees can attend some of the EXPO 2020 activities as a form of team building.
That wraps up our review of the Taqdeer Awards. From the government’s perspective, these awards are a positive way to implement high standards across companies operating in the emirate. The authorities hope that they will no longer have to impose penalties; rather, companies will adhere to the regulations in order to qualify for a better ranking.
For businesses, it is an opportunity to grow and expand in their respective sector. Not to mention, winning the award brings recognition and monetary benefits. Planning to open a business in Dubai? Visit MyBayut to start your research.
Cover image credit: Official Taqdeer website
