• 23rd October, 2025 | Abu Dhabi, UAE

    GCC GOV HR and Youth Awards 2025

    The Region's most coveted HR and Youth recognition

The Future of HR Shines Bright!

The GOV HR and Youth Summit & Awards was a tremendous success! Mark your calendars for the 13th Annual Summit this October, where HR and youth innovation take center stage.

The GCC GOV HR and Youth Awards: Pioneering Vision 2025

Celebrating Excellence in People Performance for over a decade

The GCC GOV HR and Youth Awards is a prestigious platform that brings together the brightest minds and change-makers across government, industry, and innovation. It unites visionary leaders, organizational heads, game-changing innovators, and intellectual trailblazers who are driving positive change for the greater good. These powerhouses come together to turn vision into reality, shaping a future that defines the destiny of their nations as they work toward a better tomorrow.

The 13th Annual GOV HR and Youth Summit 2025 promises to elevate this mission to new heights. It begins with a groundbreaking conference, featuring inspiring sessions and a dynamic exchange of ideas from leaders in HR, Technology, Innovation, and Youth Empowerment. Day 2 will be equally powerful, with an empowering conference followed by a Masterclass that will provide attendees with actionable insights to enhance their professional journey and prepare them for the future of work.

The grand finale will be the GCC GOV HR & Youth Awards 2025, where we celebrate excellence, innovation, and impact in governance, human capital development, and youth empowerment. These awards recognize individuals, organizations, and initiatives that are pushing the boundaries, setting new standards, and making transformative contributions to public service and HR development.

Join us at this prestigious event as we showcase the trailblazers driving progress in these vital sectors, celebrating those who are shaping the future and creating lasting impact on their communities and the world. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter, more innovative future for all.

Vision 2025 starts here.

The Regions’ Most Coveted HR and Youth Recognition
Important Deadlines of GCC GOV HR & Youth Summit 2025

Nomination Deadline

10th September, 2025

Shortlist Announced

17th September, 2025

Awards Categories

There are a total of 45 awards across both organizational and individual categories.

Awards Ceremony

23rd October, 2025
Time – 1:00 pm onwards

Place

Abu Dhabi,
United Arab Emirates

2025 Awards Categories

Encompassing 45 specialist categories, The GCC GOV HR Awards aim to honor and recognise both organizations and individuals’ exemplary efforts towards HR Excellence

GOV HR Leader
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

Recognizes an exceptional individual who epitomizes visionary leadership and innovation in the field of Human Resources. This distinguished leader has demonstrated unwavering commitment, shaping organizational cultures, and championing initiatives that redefine the future of work.

Nominate Now

AI Changemaker
of the Year
(Public & Government Sector)

The AI Changemaker Award honors visionary individuals who are driving transformative change through artificial intelligence. This award recognizes pioneers who leverage AI to solve complex challenges, innovate industries, and create a lasting impact on society. Their contributions shape the future of AI, inspiring progress and redefining possibilities.

Nominate Now
“People First” Leader Of The Year (Public & Government Sector)

This award recognizes an outstanding individual in the public sector who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to prioritizing the well-being, development, and engagement of their team and whose inclusive and empathetic approach has significantly improved workplace culture, fostered a supportive and collaborative environment to deliver success.

Nominate Now

Woman Leader
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

This Prestigious Award Aims To Recognize An Inspiring Woman Personality For Her Exceptional Championship In Creating A Diverse Working Environment And Promoting Gender Equality At Every Level. The Awards Acknowledges Empowering Initiatives And Innovative Actions Taken To Inspire Women.

Nominate Now
Youth Icon Of The Year (Public & Government Sector)

The award celebrates a remarkable young individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and positive influence within their community or industry, whose achievements and actions inspire others and contribute significantly to societal progress. The recipient embodies the spirit of ambition, resilience, and dedication, making a profound impact at a young age.

Nominate Now
Sustainable Leader Of The Year (Public & Government Sector)

This prestigious award honours an exemplary leader dedicated to advancing sustainability initiatives, driving impactful environmental policies, and fostering eco-conscious practices in every aspect within the public sector. The award celebrates visionary leadership in promoting a sustainable future through innovative, responsible governance.

Nominate Now

HR Leader
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

Recognizes an exceptional individual who epitomizes visionary leadership and innovation in the field of Human Resources. This distinguished leader has demonstrated unwavering commitment, shaping organizational cultures, and championing initiatives that redefine the future of work.

Nominate Now

“People First” Leader
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

This award recognizes an outstanding individual in the private sector who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to prioritizing the well-being, development, and engagement of their team and whose inclusive and empathetic approach has significantly improved workplace culture, fostered a supportive and collaborative environment to deliver success.

Nominate Now

CEO
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

Celebrates an exemplary leader whose visionary guidance, strategic acumen, & unwavering commitment have driven remarkable organizational success. This prestigious accolade recognizes a chief executive who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, & impact, inspiring teams & setting new benchmarks for corporate excellence.

Nominate Now

Woman Leader
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

This Prestigious Award Aims To Recognize An Inspiring Woman Personality For Her Exceptional Championship In Creating A Diverse Working Environment And Promoting Gender Equality At Every Level. The Awards Acknowledges Empowering Initiatives And Innovative Actions Taken To Inspire Women.

Nominate Now

Youth Icon
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

The award celebrates a remarkable young individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and positive influence within their community or industry, whose achievements and actions inspire others and contribute significantly to societal progress. The recipient embodies the spirit of ambition, resilience, and dedication, making a profound impact at a young age.

Nominate Now
Sustainable Leader Of The Year (Private Sector)

This prestigious award honours an exemplary leader dedicated to advancing sustainability initiatives, driving impactful environmental policies, and fostering eco-conscious practices in every aspect within the public sector. The award celebrates visionary leadership in promoting a sustainable future through innovative, responsible governance.

Nominate Now

Employer
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

This Award Recognizes The Organization That Has Created A Working Environment That Is Highly Satisfied, Driven, Determined And Integrated. It Is To Recognize Those Who Have Built A Strong Workforce By Identifying The Right Talent And Giving Their Employees The Opportunity To Hone Their Skills.

Nominate Now

GCC GOV HR Team
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

This Category Invites Nominations From The Most Successful HR Teams Who Have Focused On Driving Programs That Create Innovation, Facilitate Knowledge Dissemination And Collaboration.

Nominate Now

Digital HR
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

The Government Organization That Has Effectively Used Technology To Advance The Role Of HR. The Award Aims To Honor HR Technology Execution To Help Improve Employee Productivity And Efficiency.

Nominate Now
AI-Driven Organization Of The Year (Public & Government Sector)
The AI-Driven Organization of the Year Award honors organizations that have successfully integrated artificial intelligence to drive digital transformation and innovation. This award recognizes enterprises that leverage AI to enhance efficiency, optimize operations, and create significant industry impact. Their commitment to AI-driven growth sets new benchmarks for the future of intelligent business solutions.
Nominate Now

Innovation and Excellence in Employee Experience
(Public & Government Sector)

celebrates organizations that redefine workplace dynamics, fostering a culture where innovation and excellence converge to create an unparalleled employee experience. This accolade honors pioneers who, through visionary strategies, elevate employee engagement, well-being, and professional growth to new heights.

Nominate Now

Digital Transformation Pioneer Of the Year
(Public & Government Sector)

This prestigious award celebrates the organization that stands out as a true pioneer in the realm of digital transformation. Recognizing unparalleled commitment and achievements, successfully implemented innovative digitalization strategies for organizational efficiency and success!

Nominate Now

Organisation Of The Year For Youth Empowerment
(Public & Government Sector)

The Development Of Youth Has Been Top Priority For The GCC. In Order To Prioritize Various Initiatives To Actively Engage The Youth, The Organization Of The Year Award For Youth Empowerment Aims To Honor An All-Inclusive Youth Empowerment Strategy That Embeds Aspirations, Concerns And Interests Of The Youth Whilst Providing Them Opportunities For Development Of Capabilities. *This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.
Nominate Now

Organisation Of The Year For Women Empowerment
(Public & Government Sector)

This Prestigious Award Aims To Recognize An Organization For Their Exceptional Championship In Creating A Diverse Working Environment And Promoting Gender Equality At Every Level. The Awards Acknowledges Empowering Initiatives And Innovative Actions Taken To Promote Gender Equality.

Nominate Now

Organisation Of The Year For Best Happiness Initiative
(Public & Government Sector)

This Prestigious Award Aims To Recognize An Organization For Their Exceptional
Championship Towards Driving Happiness And Considers The Spreading Of A
Culture Of Happiness And Positivity Within Society Among Its Core Duties.
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Best Employee Benefits & Wellbeing Strategy
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

This Award Aims To Recognize, Celebrate And Benchmark Pioneers Of Employee Wellbeing

Nominate Now
Best DEI, Rewards & Recognition Award (Public & Government Sector)
This award honours an organization that has excelled in creating and implementing effective diversity and inclusion initiatives. This award recognizes innovative approaches to acknowledging and rewarding employees from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive workplace culture. The recipient demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, ensuring all employees feel valued and appreciated. *This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.
Nominate Now

Best Leadership Development
Of The Year
(Public & Government Sector)

This Award Aims To Felicitate Leadership Program That Has Pioneered HR Strategies And Who Has Exemplified The Increasingly Strategic Role Of HR In Business.

Nominate Now

Most Distinctive Learning & Development
Of the Year
(Public & Government Sector)

The Award Felicitates The Best Regional L&D Initiative Aptly Aligned To The Business Goals And Aims Towards Introducing New Format In Learning Programs , It Should Have “Clear Focus On Employee Skill Enhancement, Career Progression And Performance Management As Part Of Its World-Class Learning And Development Strategy”.
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Best Nationalization Initiative
in GCC
(Public & Government Sector)

The Award Aims To Felicitate An Organization Which Has Implemented Innovative Policies And Procedures Towards Recruiting National Talent With A Vision And Equal Focus Of Building A Focused Talent Pool To Cater To Industry Requirement
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now
Equal Opportunity Excellence Award (Public & Government Sector)
The Equal Opportunity Excellence Award honors organisations that champion inclusivity by providing equal opportunities for specially abled individuals. This award recognizes companies that go beyond compliance, fostering an accessible, empowering workplace through inclusive hiring, workplace accommodations, skill development, and innovative accessibility solutions. By breaking down barriers, they set a benchmark for diversity, unlocking potential and creating a culture where everyone can thrive.
Nominate Now

Best Flexible Workplace Strategy Award
(Public & Government Sector)

The Award recognizes organizations that excel in implementing seamless and effective flexible workplace strategies. This award honors companies that successfully integrate digital and physical environments, balancing flexibility, collaboration, and productivity. Whether through innovative workplace models, cutting-edge technology, or adaptive business strategies, these organizations set a benchmark for the future of hybrid success.

Nominate Now

Employer
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

This Award Recognizes The Organization That Has Created A Working Environment That Is Highly Satisfied, Driven, Determined And Integrated. It Is To Recognize Those Who Have Built A Strong Workforce By Identifying The Right Talent And Giving Their Employees The Opportunity To Hone Their Skills.

Nominate Now

GCC GOV HR Team
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

This Category Invites Nominations From The Most Successful HR Teams Who Have Focused On Driving Programs That Create Innovation, Facilitate Knowledge Dissemination And Collaboration.

Nominate Now

Digital HR
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

The Government Organization That Has Effectively Used Technology To Advance The Role Of HR. The Award Aims To Honor HR Technology Execution To Help Improve Employee Productivity And Efficiency.

Nominate Now

Innovation and Excellence in Employee Experience
(Private Sector)

celebrates organizations that redefine workplace dynamics, fostering a culture where innovation and excellence converge to create an unparalleled employee experience. This accolade honors pioneers who, through visionary strategies, elevate employee engagement, well-being, and professional growth to new heights.

Nominate Now

Digital Transformation Pioneer Of the Year
(Private Sector)

This prestigious award celebrates the organization that stands out as a true pioneer in the realm of digital transformation. Recognizing unparalleled commitment and achievements, successfully implemented innovative digitalization strategies for organizational efficiency and success!

Nominate Now

Organisation Of The Year For Youth Empowerment
(Private Sector)

The Development Of Youth Has Been Top Priority For The GCC. In Order To Prioritize Various Initiatives To Actively Engage The Youth, The Organization Of The Year Award For Youth Empowerment Aims To Honor An All-Inclusive Youth Empowerment Strategy That Embeds Aspirations, Concerns And Interests Of The Youth Whilst Providing Them Opportunities For Development Of Capabilities.
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Organisation Of The Year For Women Empowerment
(Private Sector)

This Prestigious Award Aims To Recognize An Organization For Their Exceptional Championship In Creating A Diverse Working Environment And Promoting Gender Equality At Every Level. The Awards Acknowledges Empowering Initiatives And Innovative Actions Taken To Promote Gender Equality.

Nominate Now

Organisation Of The Year For Best Happiness Initiative
(Private Sector)

This Prestigious Award Aims To Recognize An Organization For Their Exceptional Championship Towards Driving Happiness And Considers The Spreading Of A Culture Of Happiness And Positivity Within Society Among Its Core Duties.
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Best Employee Benefits & Wellbeing Strategy
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

This Award Aims To Recognize, Celebrate And Benchmark Pioneers Of Employee Wellbeing

Nominate Now

Best DEI, Rewards & Recognition Award
(Private Sector)

This award honours an organization that has excelled in creating and implementing effective diversity and inclusion initiatives. This award recognizes innovative approaches to acknowledging and rewarding employees from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive workplace culture. The recipient demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, ensuring all employees feel valued and appreciated.
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Best Leadership Development
Of The Year
(Private Sector)

This Award Aims To Felicitate Leadership Program That Has Pioneered HR Strategies And Who Has Exemplified The Increasingly Strategic Role Of HR In Business.

Nominate Now

Most Distinctive Learning & Development
Of the Year
(Private Sector)

The Award Felicitates The Best Regional L&D Initiative Aptly Aligned To The Business Goals And Aims Towards Introducing New Format In Learning Programs , It Should Have “Clear Focus On Employee Skill Enhancement, Career Progression And Performance Management As Part Of Its World-Class Learning And Development Strategy”.
*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Best Nationalization Initiative
in GCC
(Private Sector)

The Award Aims To Felicitate An Organization Which Has Implemented Innovative Policies And Procedures Towards Recruiting National Talent With A Vision And Equal Focus Of Building A Focused Talent Pool To Cater To Industry Requirement.

*This award comes under the “People’s Choice Awards” where the final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Nominate Now

Equal Opportunity Excellence Award
(Private Sector)

The Equal Opportunity Excellence Award honors organisations that champion inclusivity by providing equal opportunities for specially abled individuals. This award recognizes companies that go beyond compliance, fostering an accessible, empowering workplace through inclusive hiring, workplace accommodations, skill development, and innovative accessibility solutions. By breaking down barriers, they set a benchmark for diversity, unlocking potential and creating a culture where everyone can thrive.
Nominate Now

Excellence in E-learning Innovation Award
(2025)

This award honors a vendor that transforms digital learning through innovative technology, engaging content, and user-focused solutions. Recognizing excellence in enhancing accessibility and impact, it celebrates organizations that drive scalable, effective, and cutting-edge e-learning experiences in education and corporate training.

Nominate Now

Best Workplace Experience Solution Award
(2025)

This award recognizes a vendor delivering innovative solutions that enhance employee experience, engagement, and well-being. It honors organizations that create seamless, people-centric workplace solutions that drive satisfaction, productivity, and retention.

Nominate Now

HR Technology Excellence Award
(2025)

This award recognizes a vendor that delivers cutting-edge HR technology solutions, driving efficiency, innovation, and transformation in workforce management. It honors organizations that enhance HR processes and shape the future of work through technology.

Nominate Now

Rising Star
of the Year

This category is to honour and celebrate the standing out Young Professional of the year who has reflected incredible performances, thinks differently, broken the status quo and challenged the way people think in their field and has the greatest potential to become a future leader.

Sustainable Leader
of the Year

This award recognizes the contributions and achievements of a young individual who has contributed in changing the organization’s approach through mindful actions and embracing a global world-view to recognize the connection between the planet and humanity.

Organisation
of the Year for Youth Empowerment

The development and empowerment of Youth has been the top Priority for the GCC.

Presenting our Illustrious Winners, GCC 2024!!

Meet The 2024 Award Winners

A record breaking nominations under various categories,
the response for the GCC GOV HR & Youth Awards was unparalleled!

GCC GOV HR & YOUTH AWARDS 2025

Dedicated Table
Book a table for the GCC GOV HR Summit & Awards- 22nd & 23rd October - A dedicated table- USD 19,995 (Limited Availability)
USD 19,995 (Limited Availability)
Platinum Table - Awards Ceremony Only
Platinum Table Booking: (Limited availability)- USD 9,995
USD 9,995 (Limited Availability)
Gold Table - Awards Ceremony Only
Silver Table - Awards Ceremony Only
Silver Table Booking: ( Limited Availability)- USD 2995
USD 4,995 (Limited Availability)
GCC GOV HR Summit & Awards
Book a seat for the GCC GOV HR Summit & Awards | 22nd-23rd October - USD 2495
USD 2,495 Only
GCC GOV HR Awards Ceremony only

Deadline for Nominations – 10th September, 2025

So go ahead and send your nominations to ensure your team stands a chance to win!!

Thank you so much for the enthusiastic participation this year! The results are astounding and evident in its power to inspire. Gear up for the upcoming year and watch this space.

Judging Procedure

We invite HR leaders & thought leaders with years of experience in the HCM industry to form the judging panel

Important Steps -

The following award categories will fall under the “People’s Choice Awards.” The final score for the top three finalists will be determined by a combination of 80% jury score and 20% audience score.

Awards Scoring

Achievement and outcome
1 %
Methodology of the service / project
1 %
Creativity and innovation
0 %
Execution of the service / project
1 %

2024 Judging PAnel

His Excellency Dr. Mishaal Ahmed Al Shaheen Al Rubaie

Professor English Literature,
Kuwait University, Kuwait

Prof. Faiza Abbas

School of Business Administration,
Penn State Harrisburg, USA

Dr. Omar Abou Hamdan

Senior Lecturer in Human Resources and Leadership,
Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom

Thank You to Our 2022 Judging Panel

Dr. Brian Harney BA

Dr. Brian Harney BA (Hons), MBS, PhD (Cambridge), MCIPD Associate Professor, Strategic HRM, Dublin City University Business School, Ireland

Dr. Peter Holland

Professor of HR & Director of the MBA Swinburne University, Australia

Robert J. Lavigna

Director, The Institute for Public Sector Employee Engagement, a division of CPS HR Services, an independent government agency United States of America

William Scott-Jackson

Chairman at Oxford Centre for Employee Engagement

Dr Gita Bajaj

Professor of HR & Communication, IMT Business School Dubai Academic Board Member – All India Management Association- CME

Dickson Tang

Keynote Speaker & Author on Creative Human Capital Featured in Forbes “Leadership for future of work: 9 ways to build career edge over robots with human creativity”

Dr. Mourad Mansour

Assistant Professor of Management in the Department of Management and Marketing King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Why Attend

Why Attend the GCC GOV HR and Youth Empowerment Awards 2025?

In today’s evolving world, organizations are driven by their people. Forward-thinking, people-centric organizations are not only game changers but are crucial as we enter the Golden Era of Human and Technology. These organizations inspire, empower, and motivate individuals to bring their best, fostering environments that spark innovation and fuel success.

The 12th Annual GOV HR and Youth Summit and Awards 2024, set a remarkable standard by recognizing and celebrating Excellence in People Performance and Youth Empowerment Initiatives. Now, as we look ahead to 2025, the upcoming summit will continue this legacy of inspiration, uniting the top professionals, pioneers, and thought leaders from HR and youth-focused sectors across the GCC.

This prestigious gathering is more than just a conference; it’s a movement. A place where leaders, innovators, and change-makers come together to shape the future of work, talent, and youth development. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event!
Join us in 2025 as we continue to champion the power of people and innovation for a brighter future.

Meet your industry peers and the best of the best from the public sector HR team

Raise your profile amongst the most renowned names in the industry

Capitalize on potential business opportunities

Network with the HR community and with the esteemed panel of judges

SPONSOR THE GCC GOV HR & YOUTH AWARDS

Align your brand with excellence and innovation in the HR industry!

Stand out from the competition by showcasing your leadership and commitment to driving change. This prestigious event unites top HR leaders, giving you unmatched visibility, high-impact branding, and powerful networking opportunities. Seize the chance to connect with key decision-makers, elevate your presence, and position your company at the forefront of industry transformation!