UAE Minister Of State For AI To Headline LinkedIn MENA Talent Awards As Keynote Speaker

We are often reminded to stay poised to embrace the technological sea change that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work, and communicate with one another. But in fact, this global shift is already under way, and the talent marketplace is no exception.

Hiring specialists are quickly learning to leverage AI to enhance processes that fuel growth and progress. Global outlooks predict that the rapid automation powered by the Fourth Industrial Revolution could require as many as 375 million people worldwide to switch occupational categories and learn new skills by 2030. A decade from now, AI and machine learning will play a fundamental role in that change.

In this context, it comes as no surprise that His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, will deliver the keynote speech at LinkedIn’s 2019 MENA Talent Awards. The fifth edition of the awards, set to take place on November 20, 2019, explores the evolving jobs landscape under the theme ‘Future of Talent’.

Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama said: “We have witnessed over the past few years an increasing number of AI experts who have chosen the UAE as a destination that harnesses their talents and expertise, due to the country’s drive to attract innovative thinkers and provide the necessary infrastructure and polices that support the employment of AI.”

“Having LinkedIn’s MENA Talent Awards supports the recently launched UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, as it celebrates and recognizes efforts delivered by organizations and individuals utilizing AI for HR excellence; ultimately improving the UAE’s economic and social growth.” Al Olama added.

LinkedIn’s MENA Talent Awards recognize companies based on their usage of LinkedIn Talent Solutions and employer brand activities on the LinkedIn platform to drive positive impact. With AI expanding its footprint across all sectors, LinkedIn Talent Solutions leverages the benefits of AI to help companies understand new approaches to hiring, retaining and developing top talent, and creating a productive work environment while offering in-depth insights into the available talent pool.

Ali Matar, Head of MENA and Emerging Markets in Europe and Africa at LinkedIn, said: “With the increasing integration of AI into business operations across industries, it is important to showcase the added value it brings to the world of talent. At LinkedIn, AI has transformed the recruitment process through connecting emerging talent with business needs in order to enable companies to make informed hiring decisions. This year’s MENA Talent Awards honor companies that have adopted smart solutions to create substantial results through proactive engagement with employees and new talent.”

Award categories include Best Talent Acquisition Team, Best Employer Brand on LinkedIn, LinkedIn Rising Star, Best Culture of Learning, and Top Innovative Staffing Agency.

The 2018 edition of the MENA Talent Awards drew the participation of Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, and Dr Hayat Sindi, Senior Advisor to the President of Science, Technology and Innovation at the Islamic Development Bank. Winners included Careem, Chalhoub Group, Emirates, Ford Middle East & Africa, and ADNOC Group.