HR Leaders Conference Gathered Professionals in Dubai

On May 27, 2025, the HR Leaders Conference convened at Palazzo Versace Dubai, assembling prominent experts, business executives, and HR professionals from across the globe to explore innovations and technological advancements within human resources. The event functioned as a key platform addressing digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), leadership, learning and development, and sustainability in HR.

Jacob Alahan, CEO of Corporate Event Solutions, delivered the opening remarks, while Omar Hayat, Director of CLD MENA, served as moderator. The opening panel discussion featured Cristina Younan, Human Resources Director at IHG Hotels & Resorts, who emphasized the management of multigenerational teams and shared best practices to foster inclusivity. Representatives from ODILO, Ivan Lopez and Harish Vanguri, introduced innovative learning and development approaches, highlighting the alarming statistic that 70% of employees leave due to insufficient learning opportunities. Their presentation showcased the “Learning Talent Ecosystem” model designed to improve employee engagement and skill acquisition.

Digital Transformation and AI in HR

A central theme of the conference was the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance HR operations. Shailaja Unnikrishnan, Head of Global Solutions at Ramco, led an executive roundtable focused on AI-powered payroll automation, local compliance systems, and global workforce management. These AI-driven platforms aim to improve payroll accuracy, ensure compliance with regulatory standards across various jurisdictions, and streamline administrative workflows, thereby enabling HR teams to prioritize strategic initiatives.

Innovative Learning and Development Approaches

Dr. Ebrahim Hasan Al Khajeh delivered a keynote presentation on personalized training methodologies that utilize gamification and visualization tools. He underscored how such technologies effectively prepare employees for the demands of the Fifth Industrial Revolution by enhancing engagement and accelerating skill development.

ESG and Sustainable HR Practices

Kunal Wadhwani highlighted the essential role of HR in advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives. He explained how integrating ESG principles into HR policies supports corporate sustainability goals and fosters employee engagement by aligning workforce values with organizational responsibility.

Leadership and Cultural Transformation

Larissa Dorothea Murmann discussed the imperative for organizations to adopt an “AI-First” mindset. She explained that digital transformation necessitates a cultural evolution whereby leadership becomes more agile, innovative, and inclusive, creating an environment conducive to continuous learning and adaptation.

Personal Leadership and Emotional Intelligence

Sana Khammash from Equamind emphasized the critical importance of emotional intelligence, interpersonal relationships, and purpose-driven leadership. Her session detailed how leaders who cultivate empathy and strong team connections enhance organizational performance and employee well-being.

Talent Management and Career Progression

Representatives from Mercer presented frameworks for identifying and nurturing high-potential talent. They discussed agile career development models enabling organizations to retain top performers while adapting to changing workforce dynamics.

Distinguished Speakers and Contributions

Among the distinguished speakers, Dinesh Chaudhari, General Manager at Palazzo Versace Dubai, shared insights on managing diverse and multigenerational workforces in the luxury hospitality sector. Manojj Kateja, HR Director of Alyasra Group, highlighted effective strategies to promote inclusivity and diversity within multinational corporations. Eleni Anastasova, CEO of ICS Learn, led a workshop on change management, providing practical tools for facilitating successful organizational transformations. Shailaja Unnikrishnan moderated exclusive roundtable discussions on unifying payroll, compliance, and global talent management via AI-powered platforms.

The conference concluded with a keynote presentation outlining a holistic leadership model founded on four dimensions: Mindset, Heartset, Bodyset, and Soulset. This comprehensive framework was proposed as a blueprint for cultivating resilient, inspiring leaders capable of navigating complex organizational environments.

Conclusion

The HR Leaders Conference 2025 established new standards for digital transformation, AI integration, and sustainable leadership in human resources. The event equipped attendees with innovative strategies and practical solutions, empowering HR leaders to effectively address contemporary challenges and drive future organizational growth.

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