Inspiring Workplaces Awards Middle East & Africa 2026 – Roundtable Lunch & Awards Ceremony
Dubai
Wednesday June 10, 2026

A day to connect, collaborate and most importantly…celebrate!
The Inspiring Workplaces Awards Middle East & Africa 2026 Dubai Ceremony brings together senior leaders from the region’s most PeopleFirst organisations for a powerful day of discussion, learning and recognition.
This exclusive experience blends executive roundtable debates, thought leadership and an in-person awards presentation, celebrating organisations that are transforming the world of work through culture, leadership, wellbeing and employee experience.
Every organisation named in the Top 10 Inspiring Workplaces will receive a trophy, certificate, be interviewed, photographed and cheered on by your peers.
Why attend?
Exclusive executive roundtable & lunch
- Senior-Level Access – Each organisation may send up to two senior executives
- Curated Roundtables – Carefully designed group discussions that enable open and honest debate
- Peer-to-Peer Learning – Learn directly from leaders facing similar people and culture challenges
- Practical Takeaways – Exchange ideas, experiences and insights you can apply within your organisation.
- Award winning food – We all need brain food, so we will serve up some of the best Dubai has to offer
Thought leadership & inspiration
- Hear from Founder Matt Manners, who will host and moderate discussions
- A keynote speaker (TBC) offering fresh perspectives on leadership, culture and the future of work.
Buy your Tickets
For bespoke orders or invoicing contact us here.
Celebrate you and your organisation
- Winners will be formally recognised with trophies and printed certificates
- Network with senior leaders from the region’s most inspiring workplaces
- Media wall photography and interviews to capture and amplify the moment
- A chance to celebrate your organisation’s achievements in a meaningful, people-first setting.
Limited capacity
- Attendance is strictly limited to preserve the quality and exclusivity of discussion
- Early confirmation is recommended.
Together, we come together not just to celebrate success but to learn from one another and continue shaping better workplaces across the region.
On the Day
Wednesday June 10, 2026
- Arrival, welcome & networking – Time TBC
- Executive roundtable debates – Time TBC
- Lunch is served – Time TBC
- Keynote address – Time TBC
- Awards presentation & winner showcases – Time TBC
- Close of formal programme – Time TBC
Following the daytime programme, attendees are invited to continue the celebration at a nearby venue, with drinks and informal networking.
Food will be provided during the daytime event. This will be a dry event.
Dress Code
Smart, professional and comfortable.
This is a daytime leadership event. We encourage attendees to dress in a way that reflects their personal style while remaining polished and professional.
The Venue – Society, Dubai
After four years of celebrating online, we’re bringing the awards to life – in person, in Dubai.
Set against Dubai’s global outlook and energy, the 2026 Awards mark a moment to connect, reflect and celebrate progress in workplace culture across the Middle East & Africa.
Join us as we take the awards from screen to life, creating a powerful, shared experience for leaders shaping the future of work.
Located in the heart of Jumeirah 1, Society Dubai is a timeless, design-led space tailored for memorable gatherings. Whether you’re planning a private dinner, a corporate event, or a celebratory occasion, our dedicated upstairs events space offers an intimate setting with refined details and signature service.
The venue has hosted exclusives events for brands like YSL in the past and provides the ideal setting to connect, collaborate and celebrate.