Dubai: Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has launched a groundbreaking research report titled “HR Priorities with AI in the Workplace | MENA Perspectives 2025,” in collaboration with HR Dept of Ras Al Khaimah.
This report offers essential insights into the changing landscape of HR influenced by artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies. The findings were shared during a hybrid event at the Palm Atlantis, attended by leading HR professionals, business leaders, and technology experts.
Dr. Mohamed Abdullatif Khalifa, Director General of the Department of Human Resources, Government of Ras Al Khaimah, said that, “HR department of RAK is poised to work with international HR Leaders like SHRM to bring important data points on how AI is changing the landscape of HR and organizations. We are glad to extend our support and resources to such initiatives from the forefront, he emphasized.”
Achal Khanna, at SHRM emphasized that, “HR is at the forefront of one of the most significant workplace transformations in modern history. As artificial intelligence becomes integral to business operations, the role of HR evolves from traditional practices to data driven, strategic decision-making. This research empowers HR professionals to anticipate and act on the profound shifts that AI will bring.”
Key findings from the report
HR Priorities: The main focuses for HR over the next two years include talent acquisition and retention, employee health and wellbeing, and talent development. Challenges such as budget constraints and skill shortages within HR teams are also highlighted.
AI’s Role in HR: The research notes a significant shift toward analytics and learning & development, with a strong investment in AI driven tools, particularly in recruitment and workforce planning.
Implementation Challenges: Issues like data privacy and the integration of AI with existing legacy HR systems pose challenges, especially in manufacturing and heavy industries.
Organizational Readiness: About 33.53% of organizations feel their HR teams are prepared to incorporate AI into their functions. Digital literacy was identified as the most critical skill for the future.
Five key pillars for HR
Strategic Workforce Planning: Adapting to new skills and organizational structures.
Data Driven HR: Utilizing data analytics for informed decision-making.
Agility and Change Management: Embracing digitization while remaining flexible.
Ethical Governance: Ensuring AI is implemented ethically.
Balancing Technology and Human Oversight: Maintaining a balance between technology and human input.
Vivek Arora, Managing Director, SHRM MENA added that, “As we move toward 2025, the intersection of HR and AI will determine how organizations thrive in the future of work, SHRM is committed to helping HR professionals understand the opportunities and challenges posed by AI, and this research is a crucial step in that journey.”
HR leaders are urged to embrace these technological changes while staying focused on fostering human-centric work environments.