‘Time to catch up’: UAE’s private sector should prioritise workplace well-being, says human rights chief

The human rights chief of the UAE has urged the private sector to prioritise workplace well-being, a call that has strongly resonated with HR professionals across the country.

During a special live episode of the mentl space podcast, part of Tear Away The Silence — mentl’s campaign to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, Maqsoud Kruse, chairperson of the National Human Rights Institution, said, ‘Mental health isn’t just a personal issue, it’s a national priority.’

While the government is leading the way, he issued a challenge to the private sector: it’s time to catch up.

Maqsoud Kruse

Kruse emphasised how mental health is now enshrined in the UAE law, reinforcing its importance as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of a thriving, ambitious, and resilient society.

With 2025 designated as the Year of Community, the UAE is reinforcing that mental health and social well-being must go hand in hand, creating a culture of care, resilience, and shared responsibility.

“A thriving community is based on thriving individuals,” added Maqsoud Kruse. “This isn’t just about services — it’s about social connection, purpose, and ensuring that every individual has the support to flourish.”

“The best workplaces are no longer just productive — they are psychologically safe. And the best leaders are not just Chief Executive Officers — they are Chief Empathy Officers.”

Wellbeing not just a buzzword

HR professionals in the country, too, highlighted that ‘wellbeing’ is not just a buzzword but involves investing in meaningful initiatives rather than surface-level perks.

Nickie Wilson, Executive Director, Genie Recruitment, said, “Workplace well-being is shifting from an occasional conversation to an expectation. More companies will move towards structured mental health policies, flexible work models, workshops and leadership training on emotional intelligence.

Nickie Wilson

“We offer duvet days, annual wellness retreats, sound healing, workshops and even therapy support for our team. If someone isn’t feeling their best, they can work from home or adjust their hours. We also offer a work from anywhere week so employees can extend trips home even. The key is to make wellbeing a natural part of how a company operates rather than a separate initiative.”

Professionals stressed that the best way to engage leadership is by showing the business impact.

She added, “Retention rates, productivity levels and absenteeism stats all prove that a well-supported workforce performs better. HR should also encourage leaders to lead by example. When employees see their managers prioritising mental well-being and constant self-improvement it sets the tone for the whole company,” added Wilson.

Industry professionals also emphasised that workplace well-being is increasingly becoming a fundamental aspect of business strategy in the country.

Aws Ismail General Manager, Marc Ellis, Dubai, said, “Kruse’s message really resonates, and I completely agree with him. The private sector in the UAE has a responsibility to step up and match the government’s efforts, treating mental wellbeing as a priority and not just a tick-box exercise.