Kerala-born wins UAE's 'Outstanding Workforce' award, takes home Rs 24 lakh, gold coin, Apple watch

Anas Kadiyarakam received a package of rewards along with the national title. (Image: Burjeel Holdings/LinkedIn)

A Kerala-born human resources professional based in Abu Dhabi was recognised as the top performer in the ‘Outstanding Workforce’ category at the Emirates Labour Market Awards, marking a major milestone in his 16 years in the UAE’s healthcare sector, a report in Gulf News stated.

Anas Kadiyarakam, who serves as Human Resources Manager at LLH Hospital under Burjeel Holdings, received the distinction in the ‘Management and Executives’ division of the skilled workers subcategory. He shared the recognition with Abdullah Albriki, Head of Cybersecurity at Emsteel.

The awards were 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 presented with honours by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The awards acknowledged individuals across three segments within the Outstanding Workforce category: Skilled Workers, Workers at Other Professional Levels, and Domestic Workers. According to organisers, the winners were chosen from over 18,000 applications screened through assessments and interviews.

According to the Gulf News report, Anas first arrived in Abu Dhabi in 2009, beginning as an HR Executive at the LLH Day Care Centre. His progression through several positions over the years included roles as Senior HR Executive, Assistant Manager, Musaffah Region Manager, and later Regional HR Manager, during which he handled hospital operations and international initiatives within Burjeel Holdings.

His work during the COVID-19 pandemic formed a defining phase of his career. As the HR lead at Mafraq COVID-19 Hospital, he managed workforce operations at one of the UAE’s key pandemic-response facilities. His service earned him two notable national distinctions: the Heroes of the UAE Medal from the Frontline Hero Office and a UAE Golden Visa.

Anas received a package of rewards along with the national title — a trophy, Dh100,000, a gold coin, an Apple Watch, a Faza Platinum Card and additional gifts.

Reflecting on the recognition, he said the honour felt deeply personal, describing it as the UAE acknowledging his professional journey.

“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 told Gulf News.

He added that his rise was shaped by the trust placed in him by the organisation’s leadership. “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.”

Anas also credited his family — his wife Kadeeja Jishni and their children Hairine, Haaiz and Hyza — for their encouragement. “This award is for them too. Their support made every achievement possible.”

Speaking about the future, Anas said the award had strengthened his sense of duty.

“This motivates me to continue building healthier and more supportive workplaces where people feel valued and can grow. It is my way of contributing to the country that has given me so much.”

While he was honoured in the individual category, LLH Hospital Abu Dhabi — one of the hospitals he oversees in his HR portfolio — also secured recognition in the Healthcare Company division under the Establishments category, marking a third consecutive win for the institution.