Kerala Man Wins UAE's Top Employee Award: Receives Dh100,000 and Gold in Recognition of Outstanding Healthcare Leadership

Anas Kadiyarakam, an HR Manager at a hospital in Abu Dhabi, has been recognized with the prestigious 'Outstanding Workforce' award at the Emirates Labour Market Awards, one of UAE's highest honors for employees.

The Kerala native, who works at LLH Hospital under Burjeel Holdings, secured the win in the 'Management and Executives' category for skilled workers. He shared this distinguished recognition with Abdullah Albriki, Head of Cybersecurity at Emsteel.

Kadiyarakam received an impressive prize package including a trophy, Dh100,000 (approximately Rs 24 lakh), a gold coin, an Apple Watch, and a Faza Platinum Card among other rewards.

In his statement to Gulf News, he expressed his gratitude saying, "It felt like the country was telling me we have seen your growth. The UAE's private sector is the most dynamic place to learn, especially in healthcare. Every day brings a new challenge and a new opportunity to help the workforce."

He added, "I got the chance to grow with my group. My special thanks to our Chairman Dr Shamsheer Vayalil, and the management for the trust and responsibilities entrusted to me, which helped me grow."

Kadiyarakam's journey in the UAE began in 2009 when he joined LLH Day Care Centre as an HR executive. Over the span of 16 years, he climbed the corporate ladder to become regional HR manager, overseeing multiple hospitals and international projects.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, his leadership in HR operations at Mafraq COVID-19 Hospital, a critical facility managed by Burjeel Holdings, earned him the Heroes of the UAE Medal and a Golden Visa for his dedicated support to frontline healthcare workers.

"COVID was a period that tested everyone. Supporting frontline teams day and night was not just a job, it was a commitment to the country," Kadiyarakam reflected.

He views this award as motivation to continue developing healthier and more supportive workplace environments.

The prestigious Emirates Labour Market Awards ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Winners were honored by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs.