Business Culture Awards Launches MENA Programme in Dubai
The Business Culture Awards, a leading global platform celebrating excellence in organisational culture, is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural MENA programme, headquartered in Dubai. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the Awards’ journey, building on nearly a decade of success recognising cultural transformation across international and multinational organisations.
Since its inception in 2016, the Business Culture Awards has showcased over 400 winning case studies and honored companies from 48 countries, including global brands such as Sony Music, Standard Chartered, Volkswagen Group, and Cathay Pacific. The MENA programme will continue this legacy, offering organisations across the region a platform to share their cultural achievements and benchmark against global standards.
“Business culture is no longer a soft metric; it’s a strategic imperative,” said Cath Longfield, Co-Founder of the Business Culture Awards. “In the UAE and wider MENA region, culture is increasingly recognised as a key driver for attracting and retaining top talent, especially in a market defined by diversity, innovation, and rapid growth. We’re thrilled to bring our platform to this vibrant region and celebrate the organisations shaping the future of work here.”
The MENA programme will be delivered in partnership with TKOP UAE, led by Premal Patel, a seasoned business leader with over 30 years’ experience building award-winning cultures across three continents. “Dubai is a natural home for the Business Culture Awards,” said Patel. “It’s a hub of innovation, ambition, and human connection. Our goal is to spotlight the organisations that are not only succeeding commercially but doing so through cultures that empower their people.”
“The Awards will feature 28 categories, aligned with the UK programme, and are set to attract around 40 participating companies in their first year. The initiative will focus on the Middle East and surrounding regions.”
- Launch: September 2025
- Entry Deadline: January 2026
- Judging: February to mid-March
- Finalists Announced: End of March
- Awards Event: May 2026
About the Team
Tim Pointer: Chair of Judges for the UK Awards added: “We’ve seen how recognition for business culture can transform organisations. It’s about aligning values with action, and inspiring others through measurable impact. The MENA region is ready for this conversation, and we’re honoured to be part of it.” For more information, to register interest, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit Business Culture Awards.
Premal Patel: Over 30yrs, Prem has been known for his ability to forge robust and long-lasting business relationships by connecting with people on a human level. He has built award winning company cultures, across three continents, with high energy and sense of community. Prem is also a new voice in business literature with his new book YANGA Unplugged where he shares simple, effective strategies to manage change.
About TKOP: We are passionate about unlocking your potential and helping you drive your team’s performance – we help you create and build better human connections.Â
Our Belief – success comes from more than just expertise—it requires the right mindset, business connections, and a commitment to continuous growth.
Our Approach – built on real-world, practical experience, ensuring that individuals, teams, and businesses gain the experience they need to excel. We focus on business solutions, helping our clients build resilience, enhance collaboration, and create sustainable success.
