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Smart Chef 2026 Advances Towards an Exciting Grand Finale

SmartLife’s newest culinary initiative, Smart Chef 2026, continued to make impressive progress under the dedicated leadership of Project Lead Ms. Aisha. Following the successful completion of the selection phase, participants received orientation and professional training in preparation for the live cooking competitions.

The semifinals marked an exciting milestone, as contestants demonstrated exceptional creativity, skill, and determination. The high standard of performances made the selection process particularly challenging for the judges, with only the strongest participants progressing to the final stage.

On 28 June 2026, the finalists completed their final training session and prepared for the Grand Finale, held on 5 July at 11:00 AM at the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA) in Dubai Knowledge Park.

Due to limited venue capacity, the finale was livestreamed on YouTube, allowing SmartLife members, partners, and supporters to follow the competition and encourage the finalists remotely.

SmartLife extends its congratulations to all participants and sincere appreciation to Ms. Aisha, the project team, volunteers, trainers, and judges whose dedication helped bring this inspiring culinary journey to life.

Smart Finance Workshop Strengthens Financial Literacy

On 6 June 2026, the UAE Lottery and SmartLife Foundation partnered to conduct a financial awareness workshop at Premier Schools Accommodation – GEMS Education in Al Quoz.

Led by SmartLife volunteer Mr. Natesh Iyer, the session engaged more than 50 participants and focused on strengthening financial literacy, encouraging responsible money management, and supporting more informed financial decisions.

SmartHands Showcases Handcrafted Creations at Artisan Market

SmartHands, an initiative of SmartLife Foundation, continues to provide members of the UAE’s blue-collar community with a platform to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship through meaningful handmade products.

The latest collection featured delicate flowers handcrafted from 100% organic cotton, along with a charming range of dolls designed with playful ponytails and interchangeable dresses in a variety of colours.

The collection was presented at the Artisan Market at Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, from 26 to 28 June 2026, inviting visitors to discover unique gifts that celebrate talent, creativity, and community impact.

SmartLiving Promotes Mental Health and Healthy Lifestyles

Throughout June 2026, SmartLiving conducted a series of wellbeing and awareness sessions at Al Ghurair and Sobha camps, supporting frontline workers, site engineers, and managers.

At Al Ghurair Camp in Umm Suqeim, facilitator Ms. Gayathri Vasudevan led a mental health and stress management session for 39 participants. The programme combined stretching exercises, breathing techniques, relaxation activities, anger-management strategies, and open discussions on recognising and managing stress. An interactive “Clap, Stomp and Laugh” activity added energy and positivity to the session.

A larger SmartLiving programme was also held at Al Ghurair Camp for 130 attendees, featuring stretching exercises led by Ms. Gomathi, a mental wellbeing workshop by Ms. Gayathri, and a lively laughter-therapy session focused on stress relief.

At Sobha Camp, Ms. Laxmi conducted awareness workshops for more than 50 participants on the harmful physical, mental, social, and legal effects of drugs, smoking, and alcohol. The sessions encouraged responsible choices, healthier lifestyles, improved workplace safety, and informed decision-making.

SmartLife extends its appreciation to Ms. Salma, Mr. Suresh Kanan, Mr. Dawud, and all camp representatives for their valuable coordination and support.

SmartWoman Builds Confidence, Wellbeing, and Inner Strength

On 7 June 2026, SmartWoman facilitator Ms. Haleema conducted a three-hour confidence-building and self-development programme for 19 female employees from the Al Gurg Group, who travelled from Fujairah to attend the session in Dubai.

The interactive programme covered personal grooming, hygiene, healthy eating, women’s and menstrual health, self-confidence, personal boundaries, safety, and appropriate reporting channels within the UAE legal framework. Participants also received guidance on the health and safety risks associated with substance and alcohol abuse.

Through games, practical demonstrations, humour, and open discussions, the session created a safe and supportive environment for participants to learn and share their experiences. SmartLife extends its appreciation to Ms. Farahnaaz Qureshi, Ms. Anam, and the Al Gurg Group for their valuable coordination and continued commitment to employee wellbeing.

To mark International Yoga Day, Team SmartWoman also partnered with Rotaract Dubai to host a yoga, meditation, and deep-relaxation session at the Ejadah Asset Management ladies’ camp. The programme was organised by Namrata Lal, presented by Nisrine Douma, and hosted by SmartWoman Project Lead Kaveri Arunachalam.

Special thanks are extended to Ejadah management and Camp Boss Sumin for their support in making the session a success.

Smart Medic

SmartLife extends its sincere appreciation to Sahara Group for sponsoring the Smart Medic and Smart Distribution initiatives, which provided medical support, groceries, and hygiene packs to more than 800 blue-collar workers over two consecutive Sundays.

We also thank WeCare Medical Center, King’s College Hospital, Vision Care, Serveu, and GEMS staff accommodations for their valuable partnership and support in making these initiatives possible.

Together, these collaborative efforts continue to promote health, wellbeing, and dignity across the frontline community.