SHRM MENA Annual Conference & Expo 2025: Shaping the Future of Work in Dubai
By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI – The SHRM MENA Annual Conference & Expo 2025 commenced at the esteemed Madinat Jumeirah, gathering an impressive assembly of senior government officials, prominent business leaders, and distinguished human resources (HR) professionals from across the globe. Under the unifying theme “Shape the Future of Work!”, this year’s two-day event aims to redefine HR and business leadership amidst the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid digital transformation. The conference is proudly held under the patronage of the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) of the UAE.
The opening day of the conference featured an inaugural address by Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, the Minister of State for Government Development and the Future. Her speech set a tone of enthusiasm and commitment to future-oriented HR practices. This was followed by influential addresses from H.E. Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al-Falasi, the Director General of Dubai Government Human Resources Department, and H.E. Faisal Saeed Binbuti Al Mheiri, the Director General of FAHR, who underscored the event’s importance in shaping government and organizational strategies in line with contemporary workforce trends.
A hallmark of the conference was the “Leaders’ Perspectives Power Panel,” where industry pioneers engaged in high-level discussions surrounding transformational leadership and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into workforce strategies. The agenda also included a keynote address from Randi Zuckerberg, the Founder and CEO of Zuckerberg Media and HUG. Her insights on reimagining leadership in the context of AI, creativity, and human potential resonated deeply with attendees, emphasizing the need for adaptability and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of work.
With an expected turnout of over 1,000 participants, the first day of the conference provided an invaluable opportunity for dialogue and collaboration. Various sessions were dedicated to exploring practical approaches and strategic solutions that facilitate the development of resilient, future-ready organizations. The emphasis on AI and technology served as a clarion call for HR professionals to embrace these tools to enhance productivity and to foster a more inclusive work environment.
The Minister of State, H.E. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, remarked, “The SHRM MENA Annual Conference serves as a vital platform to explore the future of work. Through the collaboration between government, business, and thought leaders, we are shaping innovative strategies that empower individuals and organizations to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.” Her words encapsulate the ethos of the conference — a collective pursuit of progressive HR practices that align with both organizational goals and societal needs.
Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM APAC & MENA, expressed pride in bringing together such a diverse group of leaders and experts in the UAE. “This conference underscores SHRM’s commitment to advancing the HR profession and providing insights that will support organizations across the region in building resilient, future-ready workplaces,” he stated. His remarks highlight SHRM’s pivotal role in shaping HR practices to align with dynamic economic realities and workforce expectations.
The significance of this conference extends beyond networking and speaker engagements. It serves as a reflection of the broader trends impacting the MENA region’s workforce landscape, which, according to various regional reports, is positioned at the cusp of a major transformation driven by technology, globalization, and changing societal norms.
As organizations grapple with the need for digital transformation, the focus on equipping HR professionals with the necessary skills to navigate this changing terrain is critical. The conversations initiated at events like the SHRM MENA Annual Conference not only inform current practices but also set the stage for the evolution of the HR profession within the region.
As the conference continues, participants can anticipate a rich tapestry of insights and opportunities aimed at not only enhancing human resource capabilities but also reinforcing the notion that the future of work is inherently collaborative, innovative, and inclusive.
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