The 6th edition of Automechanika Dubai Awards 2026 is a distinguished platform dedicated to recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in the automotive aftermarket and services industry.
With 15 award categories, the program honors exceptional achievements, groundbreaking advancements, and industry pioneers who are driving transformation and setting new benchmarks in the sector. These awards spotlight the industry's evolution, celebrating organizations and individuals committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
Each entry is thoroughly evaluated by a panel of regional and international industry experts - including site visits - focussing on criteria such as technological advancements, sustainable development, and industry impact. Automechanika Dubai Awards 2026 continues to serve as a premier platform, acknowledging remarkable contributions that are shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket and services industry.
Entries to Automechanika Dubai Awards 2026 are now open. We invite eligible organizations and individuals to submit their nominations and be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the industry.
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2025 Awards Highlights
AWARD CATEGORIES
SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Bodyshop of the Year - Passenger Cars
This category recognises professional bodyshops in the Middle East specialising in collision repair, painting, and refinishing of passenger vehicles. Entrants must demonstrate excellence in operational performance, service quality, technology adoption, and customer satisfaction.
Selected finalists may be subject to verification or site visits during the evaluation process.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Operational Excellence – 20%
- Minimum 2 years of operational experience
- Demonstrated capability in passenger vehicle body repair and refinishing
- Evidence of operational efficiency, turnaround times, and service quality
2. Technology & Innovation – 20%
- Adoption of advanced repair equipment, diagnostics, or digital workflow systems
- Use of AI-enabled diagnostics, automation, or smart repair processes where applicable
- Integration of digital tools that improve service accuracy and efficiency
3. Customer Experience & Satisfaction – 20%
- Evidence of customer satisfaction through testimonials, ratings, or case studies
- Demonstrated focus on transparency, service communication, and customer retention
4. Sustainability & Circular Practices – 20%
- Adoption of eco-friendly paints, energy-efficient processes, or waste reduction
- Evidence of circular practices such as material recycling, parts reuse, or responsible disposal
- Compliance with environmental and safety regulations
5. Team Capability & Skills Development – 20%
- Skilled and certified technicians
- Ongoing investment in technical training and certification programmes
6. Portfolio Submission:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Submit a portfolio showcasing your best work on passenger cars, including high-resolution images, project descriptions, and measurable outcomes.
Who Should Apply?
- Bodyshops in the Middle East that excel in repairing and refinishing passenger vehicles.
- Businesses that prioritize quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Services Provider of the Year - Commercial Vehicles
This category recognises service providers in the Middle East specialising in maintenance, repair, fleet support, and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicles. Entrants must demonstrate excellence in operational delivery, innovation, customer impact, and technical capability.
Selected finalists may be subject to verification or site visits during the evaluation process.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Operational Excellence – 20%
- Minimum 2 years of operational experience
- Demonstrated capability in servicing, maintaining, or managing commercial vehicle fleets
- Evidence of service quality, efficiency, and reliability
2. Technology & Innovation – 20%
- Use of advanced tools, telematics, digital platforms, or predictive maintenance systems
- Adoption of AI-enabled diagnostics, automation, or fleet optimisation solutions where applicable
- Integration of technology to reduce downtime and improve service outcomes
3. Customer Experience & Impact – 20%
- Evidence of strong customer satisfaction through testimonials, case studies, or performance data
- Demonstrated ability to improve fleet uptime, reliability, or service efficiency
- Focus on long-term customer relationships and service responsiveness
4. Sustainability & Compliance – 20%
- Adoption of environmentally responsible practices, EV servicing capabilities, or resource-efficient operations
- Evidence of compliance with relevant safety, regulatory, and operational standards
- Integration of circularity practices where applicable, such as remanufacturing or responsible waste handling
5. Team Capability & Skills Development – 20%
- Skilled and certified workforce with expertise in commercial vehicle servicing
- Ongoing technical training and upskilling programmes
- Evidence of capability to handle evolving vehicle technologies
6. Portfolio Submission:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Detailed case studies, performance metrics, and high-resolution images showcasing excellence in commercial vehicles servicing.
Who Should Apply?
- Service providers in the Middle East specializing in commercial vehicle maintenance, repair, fleet management, or aftermarket services.
- Businesses that drive innovation, quality, and customer-centric solutions in the commercial vehicles sector.
Car Care Specialist of the Year
This category recognises businesses in the Middle East specialising in vehicle detailing, cleaning, polishing, paint protection, and appearance care. Entrants must demonstrate excellence in service quality, customer satisfaction, innovation, and operational standards.
Selected finalists may be subject to verification or site visits during the evaluation process.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Operational Excellence – 20%
- Minimum 2 years of operational experience
- Demonstrated capability in professional car care services including detailing, cleaning, polishing, and protection
- Evidence of service consistency, quality standards, and operational efficiency
2. Technology & Innovation – 20%
- Use of advanced tools, techniques, or premium products to improve outcomes
- Adoption of digital booking systems, customer management tools, or innovative detailing methods
- Integration of technology or service innovation to enhance quality and efficiency
3. Customer Experience & Satisfaction – 20%
- Evidence of positive customer feedback, testimonials, or repeat business
- Demonstrated focus on customer care, service consistency, and value delivery
- Clear commitment to customer trust and service excellence
4. Sustainability & Circular Practices – 20%
- Adoption of eco-friendly methods such as water-saving systems, biodegradable products, or low-impact processes
- Evidence of responsible product use, waste reduction, and sustainable operating practices
- Compliance with local environmental and safety regulations
5. Team Capability & Skills Development – 20%
- Skilled workforce with expertise in detailing and vehicle care
- Ongoing training in products, techniques, and customer handling
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development
6. Portfolio Submission:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Submit a portfolio showcasing your best work, including high-resolution images, service descriptions, and measurable outcomes (e.g., before-and-after examples).
Who should apply?
- Car care specialists in the Middle East excel in vehicle detailing, cleaning, polishing, and protection services.
- Businesses that prioritize quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in the car care industry.
Mobile Services Provider of the Year
This category recognises businesses in the Middle East delivering automotive services directly at customer locations, including maintenance, repair, diagnostics, battery replacement, tyre services, and roadside support. Entrants must demonstrate excellence in convenience, service delivery, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Operational Excellence – 20%
- Minimum 2 years of operational experience
- Demonstrated capability in delivering reliable on-site automotive services
- Evidence of service coverage, response efficiency, and quality assurance
2. Technology & Innovation – 20%
- Use of mobile diagnostics, digital booking systems, route optimisation tools, or field-service platforms
- Adoption of AI-enabled service planning, remote diagnostics, or automated customer communication where applicable
- Integration of technology to improve service efficiency and customer convenience
3. Customer Experience & Satisfaction – 20%
- Evidence of customer satisfaction through testimonials, ratings, or service metrics
- Demonstrated ability to provide convenience, responsiveness, and trust
- Focus on communication, service reliability, and repeat customer engagement
4. Sustainability & Circular Practices – 20%
- Adoption of efficient routing, reduced-emission practices, or sustainable service materials
- Evidence of responsible waste handling, battery disposal, tyre recycling, or reduced environmental impact
- Compliance with environmental and safety standards
5. Team Capability & Skills Development – 20%
- Skilled technicians trained for mobile service delivery
- Ongoing investment in technical and customer service training
- Evidence of operational readiness and service consistency across field teams
6. Portfolio Submission:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Submit a portfolio showcasing your best work, including high-resolution images, service descriptions, and measurable outcomes (e.g., customer satisfaction metrics, service coverage areas).
Who should apply?
- Mobile service providers in the Middle East that excel in delivering on-site automotive maintenance, repair, and emergency services.
- Businesses that prioritize convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction in the mobile automotive services sector.
Workshop of the Year – Passenger Cars
This category recognises independent automotive workshops in the Middle East specialising in the maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of passenger vehicles. Entrants must demonstrate excellence in technical capability, service quality, technology adoption, and customer satisfaction.
Selected finalists may be subject to verification or site visits during the evaluation process.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Operational Excellence – 20%
- Minimum 2 years of operational experience
- Demonstrated capability in passenger vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics
- Evidence of service quality, turnaround efficiency, and workshop performance
2. Technology & Innovation – 20%
- Use of advanced diagnostic tools, calibration equipment, or workshop management systems
- Adoption of AI-enabled diagnostics, predictive maintenance tools, or digital workflows where applicable
- Integration of technology to improve service accuracy, efficiency, and customer experience
3. Customer Experience & Satisfaction – 20%
- Evidence of customer satisfaction through testimonials, ratings, or case studies
- Demonstrated commitment to transparency, communication, and long-term customer trust
- Focus on service quality and customer retention
4. Sustainability & Circular Practices – 20%
- Adoption of waste reduction, responsible disposal, energy-efficient practices, or eco-friendly workshop operations
- Evidence of circularity through parts reuse, recycling, remanufacturing support, or responsible resource management
- Compliance with environmental and safety regulations
5. Team Capability & Skills Development – 20%
- Skilled and certified technicians with expertise in passenger vehicle repair and servicing
- Ongoing investment in technical training, diagnostics capability, and professional development
- Demonstrated readiness to manage evolving vehicle technologies
6. Portfolio Submission:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Submit a portfolio showcasing your best work on passenger cars, including high-resolution images, service descriptions, and measurable outcomes (e.g., customer satisfaction metrics, service turnaround times).
Who Should Apply?
- Automotive workshops in the Middle East that excel in maintaining, repairing, and servicing passenger vehicles.
- Businesses that prioritize quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in the passenger car sector.
Distributor of the Year
This category recognises independent aftermarket distributors in the Middle East that excel in supplying automotive parts, components, accessories, or solutions to the market. Entrants must demonstrate excellence in distribution capability, product quality, customer support, and business performance.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Operational Excellence – 20%
- Minimum 2 years of operational experience in the automotive aftermarket
- Demonstrated capability in supply chain management, order fulfilment, and inventory control
- Evidence of reliable distribution performance and service consistency
2. Product Quality & Portfolio Strength – 20%
- Distribution of high-quality, reliable, and market-relevant aftermarket products
- Demonstrated ability to offer a strong and competitive product portfolio
- Evidence that products meet customer needs and applicable industry standards
3. Market Reach & Business Growth – 20%
- Strong presence across domestic and/or regional markets
- Evidence of market penetration, channel expansion, or growth strategy
- Demonstrated ability to respond to changing market demand
4. Customer Support & Technical Service – 20%
- Evidence of high customer satisfaction, technical support capability, or after-sales service
- Availability of warranty handling, product guidance, or value-added customer support
- Demonstrated commitment to customer retention and relationship management
5. Digitalisation & Sustainability – 20%
- Use of digital tools such as e-commerce, ERP systems, CRM, inventory automation, or data analytics
- Adoption of sustainable logistics, responsible packaging, or efficiency-led business processes
- Evidence of compliance with regulatory and operational standards
6. Portfolio Submission
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Submit a portfolio showcasing your distribution capabilities, including product range, market presence, customer testimonials, and measurable outcomes.
Who should apply?
- Independent aftermarket distributors in the Middle East excelling in supplying aftermarket automotive parts, accessories, or solutions.
- Businesses that prioritize quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in the automotive aftermarket industry.
PRODUCTS
Innovative Product of the Year
This category recognises products in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry that demonstrate outstanding innovation, functionality, and market relevance. Entrants must show how their product solves a clear industry challenge, improves performance, or introduces a meaningful advancement to the sector.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Innovation & Differentiation – 20%
- Demonstrated originality in design, engineering, technology, or application
- Clear differentiation from existing market alternatives
- Evidence of innovation that addresses a real industry need
2. Functionality & Performance – 20%
- Proven performance, reliability, and effectiveness in real-world use
- Evidence that the product improves efficiency, usability, or service outcomes
- Clear technical and operational value
3. Market Relevance & Adoption Potential – 20%
- Alignment with current or emerging industry trends and demand
- Evidence of customer interest, market traction, or scalability
- Demonstrated relevance to the automotive aftermarket or service ecosystem
4. Sustainability & Lifecycle Impact – 20%
- Evidence that the product supports environmental efficiency, reduced waste, or better lifecycle performance
- Integration of sustainable materials, energy efficiency, or responsible product design where relevant
- Consideration of circularity, recyclability, or long-term environmental impact
5. Customer Value & Industry Impact – 20%
- Clear benefits to end-users such as cost savings, productivity improvement, safety, or convenience
- Evidence of positive user feedback, successful implementation, or measurable outcomes
- Potential to influence broader industry practice or standards
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the product, including its purpose, features, and benefits.
- Include high-resolution images, technical specifications, and measurable outcomes (e.g., performance metrics, environmental impact data).
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful implementations (if applicable).
Who should apply?
- Manufacturers, developers or authorized distributors of innovative automotive aftermarket products, tools, equipment, or technologies.
- Businesses that have introduced a product with the potential to transform the automotive industry.
Sustainable Product of the Year
This category recognises products in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry that demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and circular economy principles. Entrants must show measurable environmental benefits and clear relevance to a more sustainable automotive future.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Environmental Impact – 20%
- Demonstrated reduction in emissions, waste, energy use, or resource consumption
- Evidence of measurable positive environmental outcomes
- Clear contribution to sustainability goals within the automotive sector
2. Circularity & Resource Efficiency – 20%
- Evidence of recyclability, reusability, remanufacturing potential, or reduced material waste
- Integration of circular economy principles into product design or use
- Efficient use of materials or resources across the product lifecycle
3. Innovation & Differentiation – 20%
- Innovative design, application, or sustainability-led technology
- Clear differentiation from conventional alternatives
- Evidence of original thinking in addressing environmental challenges
4. Functionality & Market Relevance – 20%
- High performance and usability while maintaining sustainability value
- Relevance to current market needs and industry transition priorities
- Evidence of adoption potential or positive customer response
5. Compliance & Customer Value – 20%
- Compliance with relevant environmental standards, regulations, or certifications
- Clear end-user benefits such as efficiency, cost reduction, or environmental performance
- Evidence of trust, credibility, or recognition in the market
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the product, including its purpose, features, and sustainability benefits.
- Include high-resolution images, technical specifications, and measurable outcomes (e.g., carbon footprint reduction, energy savings).
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful implementations (if applicable).
Who should apply?
- Manufacturers, developers or authorized distributors of sustainable automotive aftermarket products, tools, equipment, or technologies.
- Businesses that have introduced a product with a proven or potential positive environmental impact
Safety Product of the Year
This category recognises products that significantly improve vehicle safety, technician safety, driver protection, or road safety in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry. Entrants must demonstrate clear safety value, product effectiveness, and market relevance.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Safety Impact – 20%
- Demonstrated ability to reduce risk, improve protection, or enhance safety outcomes
- Evidence of practical safety benefits in real-world applications
- Clear contribution to safer vehicles, workshops, or road environments
2. Innovation & Technology – 20%
- Innovative design, engineering, or safety-focused technology
- Differentiation from conventional solutions through added intelligence or performance
- Use of digital, automated, or advanced technical features where applicable
3. Functionality & Reliability – 20%
- Proven product performance and reliability under intended operating conditions
- Evidence that the product meets or exceeds safety expectations
- Strong technical quality and consistency
4. Market Relevance & Adoption – 20%
- Alignment with current safety needs, regulations, or market demand
- Evidence of customer adoption, use cases, or implementation success
- Relevance across automotive aftermarket or servicing applications
5. Compliance & Customer Value – 20%
- Compliance with relevant standards, certifications, or safety regulations
- Clear benefits to users including ease of use, performance confidence, or reduced risk
- Evidence of positive user feedback or validated outcomes
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the product, including its purpose, features, and safety benefits.
- Include high-resolution images, technical specifications, and measurable outcomes (e.g., accident reduction rates, safety test results).
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful implementations (if applicable).
Who should apply?
- Manufacturers, developers or authorized distributors of automotive safety products, tools, equipment, or technologies.
- Businesses that have introduced a product with a proven or potential impact on improving vehicle or road safety.
Digital Product of the Year
This category recognises software, platforms, applications, AI tools, or connected digital solutions developed for the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry. Eligible entries must be standalone digital products designed for external users such as workshops, distributors, fleets, insurers, or automotive service providers.
This category is intended for commercial digital products offered to the market, not internal digital transformation initiatives within a company.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Innovation & Digital Capability – 20%
- Demonstrated originality in software development, platform functionality, AI integration, automation, or digital architecture
- Clear differentiation from existing digital solutions in the market
- Strong relevance to challenges or opportunities within the automotive aftermarket
2. Functionality & Performance – 20%
- Proven usability, reliability, and technical robustness
- Evidence that the product improves workflows, service delivery, operational efficiency, or decision-making
- Demonstrated measurable value in real-world operational or customer-facing environments
3. User Experience & Accessibility – 20%
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface for the intended audience
- Ease of integration with existing systems, onboarding, and deployment
- Strong usability and accessibility across different users or business environments
4. Market Relevance & Scalability – 20%
- Alignment with emerging digitalisation trends in the automotive aftermarket
- Evidence of market demand, adoption, or customer uptake
- Ability to scale across multiple users, locations, or business operations
5. Customer Value & Industry Impact – 20%
- Clear benefits such as time savings, efficiency improvements, enhanced datavisibility, cost optimisation, or improved service quality
- Evidence of successful implementation, testimonials, or measurable performance outcomes
- Potential to drive wider digital adoption across the automotive aftermarket sector
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the product, including its purpose, features, and benefits.
- Include screenshots, demos, or high-resolution visuals, along with technical specifications and measurable outcomes (e.g., efficiency metrics, user adoption rates).
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful implementations (if applicable).
Who should apply?
- Technology companies, software developers, or solution providers offering digital products for the automotive aftermarket or vehicle servicing industry.
- Businesses that have developed and launched standalone digital solutions such as software platforms, applications, AI tools, or connected technologies designed for external users including workshops, distributors, fleets, insurers, or automotive service providers.
TRANSFORMATION
Digitalisation Project of the Year
This category recognises businesses or organisations that have successfully implemented a digital transformation initiative within their own operations to improve efficiency, service delivery, customer experience, or overall business performance in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry.
Eligible entries must demonstrate the successful implementation of digital technologies within an organisation, rather than the development of a digital product for commercial sale.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Strategic Relevance & Innovation – 20%
- Clear business challenge or opportunity addressed through digitalisation
- Effective application of technologies such as AI, IoT, automation, connected systems, or data analytics
- Evidence of innovative thinking in project design and approach
2. Implementation & Execution – 20%
- Successful planning, deployment, integration, and change management
- Evidence of overcoming operational, technological, or organisational challenges
- Clear project timeline, governance, and execution framework
3. Measurable Business Impact – 20%
- Demonstrated outcomes such as operational efficiency, cost reduction, productivity improvements, service quality, or customer satisfaction
- Use of measurable KPIs or before-and-after performance indicators
- Clear value delivered to the organisation and its stakeholders
4. Scalability & Future Readiness – 20%
- Ability to scale or replicate the initiative across locations, teams, or business units
- Long-term relevance and adaptability to future technological developments
- Evidence that the initiative strengthens the organisation’s digital capability
5. Sustainability & Collaboration – 20%
- Contribution to resource efficiency, smarter operations, or reduced waste where applicable
- Effective collaboration across internal teams, technology providers, or industry partners
- Evidence that the project supports long-term business resilience and transformation
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the project, including its objectives, technologies used, and outcomes achieved.
- Include visuals, data, and measurable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost reductions, customer satisfaction metrics).
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful implementations (if applicable).
Who should apply?
- Automotive aftermarket businesses, workshops, distributors, fleet operators, service providers, or manufacturers that have successfully implemented digital technologies within their operations.
- Organisations that have executed a digital transformation initiative to improve internal processes, operational efficiency, customer experience, or business performance through the use of technologies such as AI, automation, data analytics, or connected systems.
Start-up of the Year
This category recognises emerging businesses in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry that demonstrate strong innovation, commercial potential, and the ability to solve market challenges through a new product, service, or business model. Entrants should typically be less than 5 years old.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Innovation & Market Differentiation – 20%
- Clear and original value proposition
- Innovative product, service, or business model addressing a real market gap
- Strong differentiation from existing players or solutions
2. Market Traction & Validation – 20%
- Evidence of customer adoption, pilot projects, partnerships, revenue growth, or market interest
- Demonstrated proof of concept or commercial relevance
- Clear validation from the market or industry stakeholders
3. Scalability & Growth Potential – 20%
- Ability to grow across markets, customer segments, or applications
- Clear growth roadmap and business expansion potential
- Evidence that the model can be scaled sustainably
4. Customer Value & Industry Impact – 20%
- Clear benefits delivered to customers or the wider industry
- Potential to improve efficiency, solve pain points, or enable transformation
- Evidence of measurable results, positive feedback, or implementation success
5. Team Capability & Future Readiness – 20%
- Strong founding team with the skills and credibility to execute the vision
- Evidence of resilience, learning, and progress since launch
- Alignment with future industry trends such as AI, sustainability, circularity, or digital transformation where relevant
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the start-up, including its mission, product/service offering, and market impact.
- Include visuals, data, and measurable outcomes (e.g., customer acquisition, revenue growth, partnerships).
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful implementations (if applicable).
Who should apply?
- Early-stage companies (typically less than 5 years old) in the automotive aftermarket or servicing industry.
- Start-ups that have introduced innovative products, services, or business models with the potential to transform the automotive sector.
PEOPLE
Women in Automotive Aftermarket
This category recognises women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, influence, and measurable impact in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry. It celebrates individuals who are not only advancing business performance, but also helping shape a more inclusive, progressive, and future-ready industry.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Leadership & Industry Influence – 20%
- Demonstrated leadership within an organisation, business, or the wider industry
- Evidence of influence, visibility, or contribution to strategic direction and positive change
- Ability to inspire teams, peers, or broader stakeholders
2. Achievements & Measurable Impact – 20%
- Proven track record of meaningful professional achievements
- Evidence of business results, project success, operational improvement, or market impact
- Clear contribution to organisational or industry advancement
3. Innovation & Contribution to Progress – 20%
- Demonstrated innovative thinking, problem-solving, or forward-looking contribution
- Evidence of introducing new ideas, improvements, programmes, or industry value
- Relevance to the evolving needs of the automotive aftermarket
4. Mentorship, Advocacy & Inclusion – 20%
- Active contribution to mentoring, supporting, or developing others
- Evidence of advocacy for women, diversity, inclusion, or professional growth in the industry
- Positive influence on culture, opportunity, or talent development
5. Professional Growth & Resilience – 20%
- Strong personal career journey marked by commitment, resilience, and progression
- Evidence of overcoming challenges or barriers in the industry
- Demonstrated potential for continued leadership and long-term influence
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the nominee’s career, achievements, and impact on the automotive aftermarket industry.
- Include testimonials, case studies, or measurable outcomes that highlight their contributions.
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful initiatives led by the nominee.
Who should apply?
- Women professionals, entrepreneurs, or leaders working in the automotive aftermarket or servicing industry.
- Nominees can be from any role, including technical, managerial, entrepreneurial, or advocacy positions.
Rising Star in Automotive Aftermarket
This category recognises young professionals under the age of 30 in the GCC who have demonstrated exceptional promise, innovation, and early-career impact in the automotive aftermarket and servicing industry. It celebrates emerging talent with the potential to become future leaders of the sector.
Evaluation Criteria:
1. Eligibility & Professional Achievement – 20%
- Nominee must be under the age of 30 as of the application deadline
- Must be based in a GCC country
- Evidence of notable achievements, contributions, or standout performance early in their career
2. Innovation & Initiative – 20%
- Demonstrated innovative thinking, initiative, or problem-solving capability
- Evidence of introducing new ideas, improvements, or efficient ways of working
- Clear contribution beyond routine responsibilities
3. Leadership Potential – 20%
- Evidence of leadership qualities such as ownership, influence, collaboration, or project contribution
- Ability to inspire peers or contribute positively to team and business goals
- Demonstrated readiness for greater responsibility
4. Learning, Development & Industry Engagement – 20%
- Commitment to professional development through training, certifications, learning, or industry participation
- Evidence of curiosity, ambition, and active engagement with the sector
- Strong foundation for continued growth in the industry
5. Future Impact Potential – 20%
- Clear potential to become a future leader in the automotive aftermarket
- Evidence of long-term promise, industry relevance, and ambition
- Positive contribution to the future direction of the sector
6. Submission Requirements:
- Submission must be done on awards online portal: https://automechanika-dubai-awards26.evalato.com/
- Provide a detailed description of the nominee’s career, achievements, and contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry.
- Include testimonials, case studies, or measurable outcomes that highlight their impact.
- Highlight any awards, recognitions, or successful initiatives led by the nominee.
Who Should Apply?
- Young professionals under the age of 30 working in the automotive aftermarket or servicing industry in the GCC region.
- Nominees can be from any role, including technical, managerial, entrepreneurial, or support positions.
Nomination and Judging Process
Step 1: Please click on enter now button on the top of the webpage to begin with your submissions.
Step 2: Select ALL the categories that you wish to submit your nominations for. It is better to select all your interested categories from the very beginning for an easier nomination process.
Step 3: Click on the “Enter Now” button and provide your contact details. You will then receive an email with a link to submit your nomination.
Step 4: Click the link you received on email which will direct to the questionnaire forms for each category.
Step 5: You can also save your drafts, fill them as you go and review them before final submission. Please note that the nomination deadline is 31 July 2026
Step 6: Once entries are submitted, you will receive a notification from the awards team if your entry has been accepted, considering the category criteria for further judging process.
Step 7: The submitted entries will be assigned to judges based on their expertise, and the evaluation & scoring process will take place in August 2026. The shortlisted finalists will be announced in September 2026.
Step 8: Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on 11 November 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre.
Entry Submission Hints & Tips
- Allocate time to write your entry forms, share the tasks with colleagues, so no rush is involved when drafting your responses. Ensure to submit your submissions before the deadline – 31 July 2026
- Answer all questions
- Adhere to the word limit: Your answers should be succinct, well phrased and provide the most important information to prove why you should win the award.
- Provide concise answers: Carefully read every question to have a good understanding of how you should respond. Always proofread and spell-check your answers before submitting.
- Provide evidence: Provide evidence to support your submission by including facts and figures to back up your statements. Upload supporting documents/videos to your online entry.
Why enter?
- Recognize and celebrate the hard work, dedication, commitment and achievements of you and your colleagues by submitting your entries
- Being shortlisted at the awards can improve your brand awareness and promote your business amongst your existing and prospective customers
- Nominating for the awards enables you to benefit from the Automechanika Dubai’s network and a strong PR and marketing activity for the awards promoting all categories and nominees.
- A win, making a shortlist, or being nominated is a strong endorsement by the industry for your business, thus becoming a positive way of differentiating yourself from your competitors
- Entry into the awards will build trust and credibility and can play a key part in a potential new customer's decision to choose you.
- The awards evening offers plenty of opportunities to meet and network with the leading industry players and discuss new opportunities.
Meet our independent panel of judges
Dr. Hamad Al Jassmi
Director of Emirates Center for Mobility Research - United Arab Emirates University
Dr. Hemachandran K
Group Publisher & Director - AI Research Centre - Woxen University
Frank Schlehuber
Senior Consultant Market Affairs - European Association of Automotive Suppliers
Ghanim Mohammad Al Falasi
Senior Vice President Director General Office - Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Graham Threlfall
Partner - PER4M
Heiko Seitz
Global & Middle East eMobility Leader | Partner, PwC
Nasir Saif Sultan AlSeeri
Director of Engineering, Maintenance Department - Dubai Government Workshop
Orlie Gruper
Founder & CEO - Women In Mobility
Shubhra Shrivastava
CEO of GaragePlug Inc. | Founder of AutoPulse Leaders Community
Subhashree Ramarathnam
Associate Director - Frost & Sullivan
Tufan Baysal
Director - Aftermarket, Niterra Middle East FZE
Vinnie Mehta
Director General - Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India
Dr. Vishal Pandey
Partner - Mobility Consulting, Glasgow Research & Consulting
Yousef Abu Alaish
Chairman of the Spare Parts & Accessories - Business Group Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to register or submit the nominations?
Registration and nominations are complimentary.
Which award category to enter?
The entrant should select award category based on below specified parameters:
- Relevance: Entrants should choose categories that align closely with their accomplishments, expertise, and contributions within the industry.
- Impact: Consider the impact of the work or initiatives. Categories are tailored to recognize specific types of impact, such as innovation, sustainability, or community engagement.
- Eligibility: Ensure that the submission meet the eligibility criteria under each award category. This may include participation restrictions, industry focus, or time frames for the activities being nominated.
- Excellence: Categories often seek to honor excellence in various aspects of the industry, such as product quality, service delivery, or leadership.
- Innovation: Categories may also highlight innovation and creativity in addressing challenges or introducing new solutions within the industry.
For further clarity, please email Udita Mehta at udita.mehta@uae.messfrankfurt.com or call contact here at +971 52 685 6246.
Which language will be accepted?
Entries must be written in English.
Can I enter more than one category?
You can enter submissions in multiple categories, however, only 1 submission per award category.
Can I edit my entry?
Entries can be edited online until the submission deadline.
When and where the award ceremony is taking place?
Automechanika Dubai Awards 2026 will be taking place on 11 November 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC).
Can I know in the advance if I am the winner?
Award winners will be announced only on the day of the ceremony, to maintain fairness, suspense, and excitement, preserving the integrity of the awards process.