Dubai Healthcare City Authority and Emirati HR Council Launch Emiratisation Excellence Award
A prestigious new recognition programme celebrates organisations advancing UAE national talent across the healthcare sector's thriving free zone ecosystem
Dubai Healthcare City Authority and the Emirati Human Resources Development Council in Dubai have joined forces to establish Al Ghaf – DHCA Emiratisation Excellence Award, marking a significant initiative dedicated to honouring Emiratisation achievements within the Dubai Healthcare City free zone community.
Unveiled during Ru’ya Careers 2026, this strategic partnership merges the Authority’s extensive experience in nurturing Emirati technical expertise within healthcare-related disciplines with the Council’s proven capabilities in advancing UAE national human capital throughout the private sector.
Abdulla Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Deputy Chairman of the Emirati Human Resources Development Council, emphasised the award’s broader significance: “By expanding opportunities for Emirati professionals across diverse sectors, we seek to foster a culture of positive competition, promote greater job stability and further strengthen the competitiveness of UAE nationals in the labour market.”
The award draws its evocative name from the Ghaf tree, the UAE’s cherished national tree and a powerful emblem of resilience, continuity and profound connection to the nation’s heritage. Capable of flourishing even in demanding environmental conditions whilst remaining deeply embedded in Emirati cultural tradition, the Ghaf symbolises the award’s commitment to sustained human investment and enduring professional advancement. The tree’s historical prominence in traditional Emirati wellness practices creates a particularly fitting symbolic link to the healthcare sector the award celebrates.
Issam Galadari, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Healthcare City Authority, highlighted the partnership’s strategic vision: “Through our strategic partnership with the EHRDC, we want to encourage sustained progress in Emiratisation across our ecosystem by creating career pathways, professional development and leading practices among our business partners. This award reflects this ambition by recognising a tangible contribution to Emiratisation and helping create the foundations for UAE nationals to grow, contribute and lead the health sector in the future.”
Developed in collaboration with Dubai Quality Group, the award programme will recognise the initiatives and accomplishments of Dubai Healthcare City partners in recruiting, nurturing, advancing and retaining Emirati talent. It will champion sustainable approaches that create meaningful professional opportunities, enabling UAE nationals to build fulfilling careers within the healthcare sector.
The inaugural Al Ghaf – DHCA Emiratisation Excellence Award will invite submissions commencing in the first quarter of 2027, with comprehensive details regarding eligibility criteria, evaluation methodology and participation procedures to follow.
Source: WAM