The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) has launched the inaugural ‘Research Awards 2025,’ a groundbreaking initiative aimed at driving scientific research, enhancing human capital, and fostering innovation. This pioneering program is being implemented in collaboration with four esteemed academic institutions: Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), and Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai (RIT Dubai).
Empowering Research for a Transformative Future
Open to both students from the participating universities and employees of Dubai’s government entities, ‘Research Awards 2025’ is designed to fuel academic inquiry into key areas shaping the future of work and human resource management. Participants are invited to explore critical themes such as ‘Workplace Skills and Lifelong Learning,’ ‘Human Resource Management: Challenges and the Road Ahead,’ ‘Enhancing HR Systems and Policies in Dubai Government,’ and ‘Employee Wellbeing in the Workplace.’
Leadership Vision: A Future-Ready Workforce
H.E. Abdulla Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of DGHR, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Dubai Government’s strategic vision to nurture a progressive and innovative human resource ecosystem.
“The ‘Research Awards’ is a pioneering initiative that will drive innovative solutions and forward-thinking research to address the evolving challenges of the workplace. By integrating global best practices and advanced strategies, DGHR remains committed to developing national talent, refining expertise, and positioning Dubai as a global leader in human resources management and innovation,” H.E. Al Falasi stated.
Dr. Mansoor Alawar, Chancellor of HBMSU, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the UAE’s national vision, ‘We Are the UAE 2031,’ and the broader strategy for talent attraction. He emphasized that fostering academic research will support evidence-based policymaking, elevate workforce strategies, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Academic and Industry Collaboration
Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of MBRU, praised the DGHR for its unwavering commitment to human resource development. He stressed that the initiative will significantly strengthen the healthcare sector by incorporating research-driven strategies into talent management, education, and workforce development.
Dr. Yousef Al Assaf, President of RIT Dubai, underscored the importance of integrating research and technology to create an ecosystem that bridges academia and industry.
“At RIT Dubai, we are dedicated to leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower students and government employees, equipping them with the skills and insights needed for the future job market. This award is a testament to Dubai’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence,” he said.
H.E. Dr. Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, emphasized that promoting a research-driven culture in human resource management will lead to more effective governance and institutional transformation.
“The ‘Research Awards’ will serve as a dynamic platform for thought leadership, enabling policymakers to design strategies that align with evolving labor market needs while fostering innovation in government HR policies,” H.E. Al Marri noted.
Criteria, Prizes, and Submission Timeline
DGHR has outlined rigorous evaluation criteria for research submissions, emphasizing originality, innovation, clarity of objectives, methodological excellence, and the potential impact on government HR practices. Eligible research must be original, unpublished, and can be submitted in either Arabic or English.
Submissions will be accepted from February to August 2025, with winners announced in October 2025. The winning researcher will be awarded AED 25,000, a certificate of appreciation, and a commemorative shield, with the added honor of having their research published in reputable scientific journals.
A Call to Innovators and Researchers
DGHR invites students, researchers, and professionals to take part in this transformative initiative that fosters sustainability, creativity, and forward-thinking solutions in the HR domain. By bridging academia with real-world challenges, ‘Research Awards 2025’ aspires to redefine the future of human resource management, ensuring Dubai’s continued leadership in talent development and workplace excellence.
As DGHR advances its mission of fostering a dynamic and innovative workforce, this initiative stands as a beacon of research-driven progress, strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for knowledge, innovation, and excellence in human resources.