Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honours Dubai Human Development Award 2006 winners

Two organisations from the trade and finance sectors were awarded Certificates of Appreciation for the significant contribution to national human development within their organisations. The winning companies are Apparel (L.L.C) and Sharjah Islamic Bank. The Gold Category Award was given to Dubai Islamic Bank (finance sector) and Dubai Aluminium Company Limited (DUBAL) (manufacturing sector).

"The Dubai Human Development Award focuses on the importance of investing in human capital and the development of human capabilities. The award was launched by the Department of Economic Development (DED) under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed to encourage nationals to participate actively in the growth of the emirate," said Mr. Khalid Al Kassim, Deputy Director General for Planning and Development at DED.

"The Dubai Human Development Award aims at honouring and recognizing businesses from the private sector, which participate in the development of UAE nationals and encourage the contribution of UAE nationals to the development of the emirate," added Mr. Al Kassim.

The Dubai Human Development Award is part of a comprehensive initiative which provides work opportunities to UAE nationals and also develops their abilities. It emphasises the role of UAE nationals in the future of the country through intensive training and guidance. The award has enabled the founding of professional quality management systems within organizations, thereby facilitating the progress of all employees.

"We urge all organizations in Dubai, regardless of size or activity, to participate in and contribute to this worthy initiative and to the progress of the county," added Al Kassim.

The award covers eight economic sectors, which are trading, construction, professional, services, tourism, finance, manufacturing and semi-government. Each sector has been sub-divided into two categories with the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) comprising companies with less than 250 employees and the Large Enterprises (LEs) comprising companies with more than 250 employees.

Applications are evaluated by a team of assessors who also conduct site visits and prepare detailed assessment reports highlighting the existing best practices and the areas for improvement in each company. The examiners evaluate applications on the basis of three criteria that include commitment (20 per cent), process (45 per cent) and results (35 per cent).

The DHDA recognises the long-term commitment of the private sector to the development of young nationals by offering them the chance to develop and build career paths.