Private sector told to focus on workplace well-being

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.

- Nandini Sircar

Maqsoud Kruse, chairperson of the National Human Rights Institution, at a recent podcast, 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.

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.”