Kamal Kumar wins Smart Idol 2025 in Dubai. SUPPLIED

Kamal Kumar, a 27-year-old worker in Dubai, has won more than three times his salary after emerging as a champion in the dance category of Smart Idol 2025, a talent competition designed for the UAE’s blue-collar workforce. The Indian expat, who earns Dh1,500 per month working at a disposable packaging factory in Dubai, took home Dh5,000 in prize money. “This will help me build my home back in India. I’ve never owned a house before, and this money will go toward the roof construction,” he said. Kamal was one of two Indian winners in the competition. Baljit Kumar, a 42-year-old technician from Abu Dhabi, also won Dh5,000 in the music category. Smart Idol, launched in 2013 by SmartLife Foundation, is a talent contest for blue-collar workers. The latest edition, held at Pakistan Association Dubai, saw over 1,000 workers auditioning from more than 40 labor camps across the UAE. Only 200 participants advanced to the next round, and just 20 finalists made it to the grand stage. They included technicians, helpers, sales assistants, and administrators, all earning less than Dh3,000 per month. Finalists underwent a five-week intensive training program, where professional vocalists from Check123 Studio coached singers, while dancers received expert training from Vibes Creative Arts Training Institute. For Kamal, dancing is more than just a hobby—it’s his passion. Inspired by South Indian film choreographer Raghava Lawrence, Kamal dedicated hours of training after his 12-hour work shifts. “I used to watch his dance videos after work and try to perfect his moves. Winning this competition is a dream come true,” he said. The Smart Idol competition has transformed lives, with many past winners going on to perform professionally. Some have been recruited into Smart Band, a group that performs at events year-round, offering participants an additional source of income. “Many of our past winners have found professional opportunities. Some now perform at hotels, private events, and community programs,” a representative from SmartLife Foundation shared. Smart Idol is more than just a talent show—it’s a platform that helps underprivileged workers turn their skills into sustainable careers. ICA/Expat Media
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