Kerala Expat Achieves Prestigious Honour in UAE
An Indian expatriate from Kerala has achieved a remarkable milestone in the United Arab Emirates, securing a top honour at the prestigious Emirates Labour Market Awards. Anas Kadiyarakam, who has built his career in the UAE over 16 years, was declared the top winner in the Outstanding Workforce category, a recognition that came with life-changing rewards.
A Glittering Prize Package for Excellence
The award ceremony, held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, saw Anas receive a spectacular prize package. The honours were personally presented by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs.
His winnings included:
- A cash prize of Dirhams 100,000 (approximately ₹2,414,500)
- A commemorative trophy
- A gold coin
- An Apple Watch
- A Fazaa Platinum Card
- Several other valuable gifts
Anas, who works as the Human Resource Manager at LLH Hospital, shared the Management and Executives branch award with co-winner Abdullah Albriki, Head of Cybersecurity at Emsteel.
From HR Executive to Award-Winning Manager
Anas Kadiyarakam, originally from Kozhikode in Kerala, began his professional journey in Abu Dhabi back in 2009. He started as an HR Executive at the LLH Day Care Centre and demonstrated consistent dedication, climbing the corporate ladder through sheer hard work.
His career progression includes:
- Senior HR Executive
- Assistant Manager
- Musaffah Region Manager
- Regional HR Manager overseeing hospitals and strategic international projects for Burjeel Holdings
His most significant test came during the COVID-19 pandemic, where his leadership of HR operations at the Mafraq COVID-19 Hospital was nothing short of exemplary. This crucial contribution earned him the Heroes of the UAE Medal and the coveted Golden Visa.
Gratitude and Future Vision
In his moment of triumph, Anas did not forget those who supported his journey. He expressed profound gratitude to his family and the leadership of Burjeel Holdings for their unwavering support throughout his career.
"This award is for them as well. Their encouragement made every achievement possible," he emotionally stated.
He specifically thanked Dr Shamsheer Vayalil and the Burjeel management for the trust they placed in him, saying, "I got the chance to grow with my group. My special thanks to our Chairman Dr Shamsheer Vayalil and the management for the responsibilities entrusted to me, which helped me grow."
Looking ahead, Anas sees this recognition as motivation to continue his mission of creating healthier and more supportive workplaces. He described this as his way of giving back to a country that has given him so much opportunity and growth.
Reflecting on his 16-year journey, Anas called the award a "milestone" and told Gulf News: "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 support the workforce."
This story stands as a powerful testament to what Indian expatriates can achieve through dedication and excellence in the UAE's competitive professional landscape.
