Dubai Government Excellence Programme begins 2026 assessments with 279 nominations across 11 categories

DUBAI: The Dubai Government Excellence Programme has begun the first phase of its 2026 assessment cycle, with 279 nominations across 11 categories. The programme, part of the General Secretariat of The Executive Council of Dubai, is conducting the cycle in line with the updated government excellence framework approved by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, in February 2023. A total of 35 assessors, organised into 10 teams, will evaluate nominations against approved criteria for individual and institutional excellence. The cycle covers eight Dubai Excellence Medal categories, two variable categories comprising Best Joint Government Initiative and Best People of Determination-Friendly Entity, as well as a Special Tribute for Unknown Soldiers. Dr Hazza Khalfan Al Nuaimi, Assistant Secretary General for Excellence and Government Services Sector at the General Secretariat of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Government Excellence Programme continues to reinforce excellence as a key driver of government performance and Dubai’s global leadership. “By recognising talent, encouraging innovation and strengthening collaboration across government entities, we aim to translate individual and institutional capabilities into measurable results, better public services and lasting value for society.” Eman Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Assessment and Studies at the General Secretariat of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “Our rigorous assessment process reflects the Government of Dubai’s commitment to advancing excellence. “From nomination reviews and field visits to evaluation, consensus and arbitration, each stage contributes to a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment that recognises tangible achievements and contributions to government excellence.” The Dubai Excellence Medals are open to Dubai Government employees at all levels and across all fields, recognising talent that leads by example and encourages continuous development. Nominees are assessed on performance and achievement, innovation, continuous learning, initiative and entrepreneurial awareness, positive influence and leadership, depending on the category. Together, the criteria measure the results employees deliver, their commitment to developing their capabilities and their contribution to sharing knowledge with colleagues. The Best Joint Government Initiative category recognises entities that demonstrate excellence and innovation in delivering joint initiatives with an impact at the entity, government and societal levels. Its criteria assess partnerships in planning and delivery as well as the resulting impact, reflecting a whole-of-government approach and public-private partnerships aimed at improving quality of life and community wellbeing. The Best People of Determination-Friendly Entity category assesses institutional efforts and results in attracting, empowering and integrating People of Determination into government work. The criteria cover systems, facilities and work environments that enable People of Determination to fulfil their roles and develop their capabilities. They also assess results in supporting their active participation and drawing on their expertise. The 2026 assessment cycle will also identify successful practices among employees and government entities that can be shared and scaled across sectors.