Dubai Airports has been named a 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award (GEWA) winner, becoming the only airport on this year's global list and cementing its reputation as one of the world's most engaged workplaces.
The organisation recorded an employee engagement score of 74 percent, up from 71 percent in 2025, placing it in the 77th percentile against a benchmark drawn from 27.6 million respondents and more than 6,000 organisations across 200 countries.
The GEWA is among the most demanding workplace distinctions globally, recognising employers that demonstrate measurable outcomes from investing in people development and engagement.
The back-to-back recognition comes on the heels of a record-breaking year for Dubai International (DXB), which delivered its highest-ever annual passenger traffic and retained its title as the world's busiest international airport for the 12th consecutive year.
Meshari Al Bannai, Chief People Officer of Dubai Airports, said the award reflects a deliberate and deeply embedded approach to leadership.
"Engagement at Dubai Airports is embedded into the way we operate every day, from developing future leaders and national talent, to building a culture where accountability, service and innovation thrive together."
That philosophy is increasingly backed by technology. Dubai Airports has integrated artificial intelligence across its learning and development programmes, deploying tools including a microlearning platform with an AI coach, AI-assisted content creation, and simulation-based training through Microsoft Copilot Studio and a Negotiation Coach designed to replicate live airport conditions.
The organisation is also building people capability in parallel with the development of Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), with a talent strategy focused on clear pathways for both Emirati and international professionals.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
