UAE Government Excellence Awards 2026: Who Won, Which Entities Were Recognised and Why It Matters

The UAE Government Excellence Awards 2026 were presented to the UAE federal authorities, who were awarded in the Innovation, Leadership and Enhancement of Public Services categories. 

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum recognized them at an event to which the Head of National Government set new standards in terms of institutional performance and the pursuit of long-term excellence. The awards catered to areas of digital government, legislation, artificial intelligence and national campaigns.

UAE Government Excellence Recognises Leadership and Innovation

The Ministry of Interior took home the Global Leadership and Competitiveness award, and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority was awarded for Adopting Innovative Solutions. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security got the award of Outstanding Value and the Ministry of Justice achieved Developing Legislation and Laws.

UAE Government Excellence Highlights Partnership and Future Readiness

The Partnership and Integration award was shared between two award recipients – the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. In the Artificial Intelligence Applications category the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources came first, and in the category of Proactivity and Future Readiness, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was recognized.

UAE Government Excellence Celebrates Sustained Achievement

Sustained Excellence was given to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Interior for consistently maintaining high standards over multiple evaluation periods. Hayat, the national organ and tissue donation programme, and Make it in the Emirates led by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology also received special recognition.

UAE Government Excellence Recognises National Service

Sheikh Mohammed also awarded Sheikh Surour bin Mohammed with the Mohammed bin Rashid Sash, to reward his long and distinguished service to the country and his contributions to the development of the UAE over the years. The awards highlight the role and significance of institutional performance and innovation and public service in promoting the sustainable development agenda of the Nation.

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