Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, honoured the winners of the 22nd Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award at a ceremony held under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry organised the ceremony at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi on 2 July 2026, recognising private-sector companies that set benchmarks in performance, innovation and operational excellence across the emirate's economy.
The companies honoured
Seven organisations were recognised across the award's categories:
- VIAI Technologies — for AI-powered solutions delivered through wearable smart devices for the sports sector.
- The Specialized Rehabilitation Hospital — for its integrated rehabilitation services.
- Kanoo Energy — for engineering solutions serving the energy and industrial sectors.
- Nakheel Hygienic Paper Manufacturing — for its paper-hygiene manufacturing operations.
- Circa Biotech — for circular-economy solutions that turn organic waste into value.
- Low Calories Restaurants — for a healthy-eating business model.
- Gulf Extrusion Automotive & Industries — for aluminium components supplied to the automotive industry.
A focus on data and technology
The 22nd edition centred on encouraging private-sector firms to adopt best practices, data-driven techniques and advanced technologies that raise operational efficiency and productivity. It also rewards innovative business models built on knowledge and technology, in line with Abu Dhabi's wider economic priorities.
The ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khalid bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, alongside senior officials and members of the award's board of trustees.
About the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award
Now in its 22nd edition, the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award is one of Abu Dhabi's longest-running recognition programmes for the private sector, created to raise competitiveness and quality standards among businesses in the UAE.
Who won the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award in 2026?
Seven companies were honoured: VIAI Technologies, The Specialized Rehabilitation Hospital, Kanoo Energy, Nakheel Hygienic Paper Manufacturing, Circa Biotech, Low Calories Restaurants, and Gulf Extrusion Automotive & Industries.
Who presented the awards?
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, honoured the winners under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
