Kerala Expat Wins UAE’s Top Skilled Worker Award
An Indian expatriate from Kerala has achieved a remarkable milestone in the United Arab Emirates after securing the top honour in the Outstanding Workforce category at the prestigious Emirates Labour Market Awards. Anas Kadiyarakam, originally from Kozhikode, was recognised as the top skilled worker and walked away with an impressive prize package that included a trophy, AED 100,000 (around ₹24.14 lakh), a gold coin, an Apple Watch, a Fazaa Platinum Card, and several other gifts.
Anas currently serves as the Human Resource Manager at LLH Hospital under Burjeel Holdings. He shared the award with co-winner Abdullah Albriki, Head of Cybersecurity at Emsteel, in the Management and Executives division of the Skilled Workers subcategory.
The 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. The honours were presented by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs.
Anas began his UAE journey in 2009 as an HR Executive at the LLH Day Care Centre in Abu Dhabi. Through dedication and consistent performance, he rose to become Senior HR Executive, Assistant Manager, Musaffah Region Manager, and eventually Regional HR Manager. Over the years, he played key roles in managing hospitals and strategic international projects under Burjeel Holdings.
His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic—especially his management of HR operations at the Mafraq COVID-19 Hospital—earned him notable recognition, including the Heroes of the UAE Medal and a Golden Visa.
Expressing gratitude, Anas thanked his family and the leadership of Burjeel Holdings for their support, stating that this honour is as much theirs as his. He noted that the award inspires him to keep creating workplaces that uplift employees and help them grow, as a way of giving back to the country that gave him countless opportunities.
Calling the recognition a significant “milestone” in his 16-year journey, Anas told Gulf News that it felt like a validation of his growth and contribution. He described the UAE’s private sector—especially the healthcare industry—as a dynamic space filled with opportunities to learn and serve.
Anas also extended heartfelt thanks to Chairman Dr Shamsheer Vayalil and the Burjeel management, acknowledging their trust in him and the responsibilities that shaped his professional journey.
