Entries now open for the 2026 Middle East People Awards as the programme grows with the profession

Why the awards matter

We launched the Middle East People Awards in 2019. Since then, they’ve become a trusted way to recognise excellence in people management and L&D across the region. Each year, we see more entries from across the region, a clear sign of a profession growing in influence and ambition.

Entries come from aviation, financial services, energy, FMCG, healthcare, government and professional services, among many other industries across the region. They span both public and private sectors, showing how diverse people practice is across the Middle East.

The 2026 edition opens on 20 May, aligning with International HR Day — a moment that celebrates the profession and the people driving progress in workplaces across the region.

We’re celebrating work that is principles‑led, evidence‑based and outcomes‑driven — initiatives that create meaningful, measurable impact for people, organisations and the communities they serve.

What’s new for 2026 

The programme evolves every year based on feedback from entrants, judges and the wider profession. For 2026, we’ve introduced: 

• New categories, including Talent Attraction & Employer Branding and Talent Performance & Capability Development 
• Revised categories, ensuring they reflect the realities of people practice across the region 
• A clearer, more intuitive entry process, helping organisations tell their story with confidence. 

These updates strengthen the awards while keeping the core focus the same: recognising world‑class people practice that delivers real impact. 

Key dates 

• 20 May 2026 — Entries open 
• 9 June 2026 — Entry clinic webinar (12:00 UAE time) 
• 15 July 2026 — Entry clinic webinar (15:00 UAE time) 
• 28 August 2026 — Standard deadline for submissions 
• 11 September 2026 — Final deadline for submissions 
• 19 October 2026 — Shortlist announcement 
• 10 December 2026 — Awards night 

Support available

To help entrants prepare strong, compelling submissions, we’re hosting two free entry clinic webinars. Sign up here:

• 9 June at 12:00 UAE time
• 15 July at 15:00 UAE time

These sessions will walk you through the entry process, explain what judges look for, and offer practical guidance on presenting evidence and impact clearly. 

They’re open to all entrants and designed to give you the clarity and confidence you need to submit your best work. 

Strategic partners - FBS | Future Solutions Today

To express your interest in joining us as a strategic partner, please visit our website for more information or reach out to awards@cipd.ae.

Stay updated 

Make sure you don’t miss key dates, announcements or programme updates. Register your interest to receive awards‑related content directly to your inbox and stay connected throughout the 2026 cycle. 

If you have any questions about the awards, reach out to us at awards@cipd.ae.