A happy office in the UAE is a productive office

A Dubai-based entrepreneur has launched Happiness Labs to help UAE companies create more upbeat workplaces to help boost productivity.

Khurram Qureshi is the founder of Happiness Labs in Dubai. Ravindranath K / The National

Work pressure, unrealistic targets and job insecurity make UAE offices unhappy, particularly in the private sector, a UAE-based happiness consultant claims.

“Those working in the banking and sales-orientated jobs are more vulnerable to unhappiness,” says Khurram Qur­eshi, a marketing and sales professional who last October launched Happiness Labs, a Dubai-based start-up that helps companies create upbeat workplaces and increase productivity.

Focusing on the private sector, Mr Qureshi says unhappiness directly relates to poor productivity at all levels of a company from entry level to senior management, in turn affecting a business’s bottom line.

“Any organisation where people are recognised will be a happier workplace,” says the 38-year-old Pakistani, who claims his company is the first of its kind in the region.

Aisha Ibrahim Zayed Al Ali, director of strategic planning and corporate performance at Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government says happiness is crucial for any office. “Creating balance between happiness and unhappiness factors in workplaces will increase job satisfaction and lead employees to increase their productivity under any pressure,” she says.

Dubai salesman Kamal Kumar says he finds it difficult to start the day with a smile because of work pressure.

“A salesperson’s life is full of frustrations and stress. Besides business targets there is always the job uncertainty and so many other factors, all of which have direct impact on normal life,” says the 34-year-old Indian. “I feel the same pressure back home after the strenuous working hours.”

Yasir Imtiaz, a banker, says unrealistic deadlines and targets are the main contributors to unhappiness and depression among banking professionals. “If the environment at the office in not good, then the effects go home, ending up in quarrels on petty domestic issues,” says the 35-year-old Pakistani. Mr Imtiaz says many colleagues suffer from depression and other medical complications because of the unhealthy work environment and job insecurity.

Q&A

Why did happiness consultant Khurram Qureshi launch the company?

He says he loves “helping people first and foremost”. He adds: “Happiness is not a gimmick, it’s the reason we do everything and I feel people can benefit if they truly were provided with insight into their own happiness because satisfaction is the biggest driver of success”.

What does he suggest employers do to keep their employees upbeat?

He says the time has come for private and public sectors to work together to make the UAE the happiest country in the world. “We are so proud of the vision of the leadership of UAE which cares for everyone living here. It is one of the few rare countries and the only one in the Arab world that has created a Ministry of Happiness. Spreading happiness is the priority of the government and every one should come forward and support the ministry.”

But what exactly does he do to help companies create a happier workplace?

He says he tries to understand the brand first. “I also look at how this brand is being understood internally,” he says. “Is top management involved at the grass roots level?

Are employees engaged or not? Are they participating in helping shape a happier workplace. Is wellness a priority? Are different teams on the same page. Internal communication is key.”

What are considered the most stressful jobs in the UAE?

According to a report released by Bayt.com earlier this year, construction emerged as the most stressful industry in the country, followed by banking and finance. Construction also tops the list for the longest working hours, followed by hospitality.

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