DUBAI — A Dubai-based non-profit organisation, SmartLife Foundation, says it has reached more than one million semi-skilled and unskilled workers across the UAE since its establishment in 2009, offering free education, healthcare support and skills development programmes aimed at improving livelihoods.
Registered with Dubai’s Community Development Authority, the organisation focuses on helping workers, particularly those from South Asian and African countries, develop practical skills, build confidence and explore opportunities beyond their daily employment.
Its programmes rely on volunteers, corporate partners and community supporters, with all activities offered free of charge.
Skills training and health support
SmartLife operates across five key areas: skills development, health and well-being, community support, targeted assistance for vulnerable groups and annual community events.
Through its Smart English, Smart Computer, Smart Skills and Smart Hands programmes, the organisation has supported more than 5,000 beneficiaries across over 150 labour camps.
Its health initiatives, which include medical check-ups, mental health support, fitness activities and preventive health awareness, have reached more than 10,000 beneficiaries, according to information provided by the organisation.
Community support programmes include educational assistance for workers’ children, labour camp visits, recreational activities and financial literacy training. These initiatives have benefited more than 8,000 people.
SmartLife also runs targeted programmes for women, older people and other groups requiring additional support, while its annual activities include talent competitions, sports tournaments, cultural celebrations and recognition ceremonies.
Academy focuses on practical learning
Education remains central to the foundation’s work through SmartLife Academy, which offers four main learning tracks.
Smart Skills provides practical training in areas such as mechanics, plumbing and electrical work, while Smart Hands introduces participants to creative activities including crochet, jewellery making and fabric art.
Smart English offers conversational English lessons to improve communication, while Smart Computer provides basic digital skills to help participants navigate technology in their professional and personal lives.
The programmes are designed to strengthen employability, encourage self-reliance and equip participants with skills they can use to improve their circumstances.
Mobile app expands access
The foundation has also introduced a free mobile application intended to connect workers, their families and volunteers with its programmes and services.
The app focuses on access to information, community engagement and personal development through digital learning and certification opportunities.
Designed with simplicity and low data consumption in mind, it aims to reach users who rely on basic smartphones or have limited internet connectivity.
Workers and their families can also access programme information, registration details, schedules and locations through SmartLife’s communication channels, including its Instagram account, SmartLifeOrg.
Awards and corporate partnerships
SmartLife’s initiatives have received regional recognition, including the Dubai Chamber CSR Label Community Award in 2018, the Dubai Quality Appreciation Award in 2019 and the Ethraa Award in 2024 and 2025.
The organisation also cites recognition associated with Project AKSHAR at the Effie Awards in 2015 and multiple Dubai Lynx awards for the promotional campaign for Project SAPNA WALL.
Its programmes align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, good health and well-being, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, and reduced inequalities.
This alignment provides opportunities for companies to support community initiatives through corporate social responsibility programmes, sponsorships and employee volunteering.
Volunteers and companies invited to participate
SmartLife says more than 20,000 volunteers have been engaged in its initiatives, alongside over 200 corporate supporters.
Volunteers can contribute their time and professional expertise, while companies and institutions can participate through sponsorships, partnerships and employee engagement activities.
The foundation is also encouraging professionals and organisations to contribute ideas and resources through collaborative projects and development initiatives.
SmartLife President Arun Krishan has emphasised the importance of ensuring that workers, their families, volunteers and corporate partners feel included in the organisation’s mission.
With its focus on practical education, health support and community engagement, SmartLife aims to expand access to opportunities for workers who play a significant role in the UAE’s economic development.
The organisation’s approach centres on helping beneficiaries develop the knowledge, confidence and independence needed to pursue their own aspirations while contributing to the wider community.
