Human Times
The latest business Intelligence for HR professionals and people managers everywhere
Sign UpOnline Version
Human Times Logo
Middle East Edition
28th November 2025
 
Industry Slice Icon Logo

THE HOT STORY

Saudi Arabia proposes workplace dress code

Saudi Arabia is introducing a new "Code of Appearance and Conduct" that mandates specific attire for employees across all sectors. Saudi men must wear the national dress, while non-Saudi men are required to don formal suits. Women, both Saudi and non-Saudi, must dress modestly, avoiding tight or transparent clothing. Employers are to be responsible for enforcing these rules and will face penalties for non-compliance. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) said it aims to promote a unified professional image and uphold public morals in the workplace. The draft is currently open for public consultation.
Industry Slice Icon Logo

STRATEGY

Petrofac confirms UAE operations 'are progressing as normal'

Petrofac has confirmed that its operations in the UAE are continuing after the termination of around 180 employees on November 19 due to an internal restructuring. In an official statement to Khaleej Times, the company said: “Operations across Petrofac's portfolio in the UAE are progressing as normal, with our teams continuing to support Adnoc in delivering its evolving energy goals.” A settlement statement detailing remaining dues is expected within 14 days, with updates to be shared before December 3.
Industry Slice Icon Logo

WORKPLACE

UAE's parent-friendly policies boost competitiveness

The United Arab Emirates has developed a pioneering model for parent-friendly workplace policies, significantly impacting its global competitiveness. The Parent-friendly Label (PFL) program, launched in 2021, has expanded nationally, and now supports 163,000 employees, including 105,000 parents. A recent report, "Thriving Through Talent: How parent-friendly policies drive balance, growth, and global competitiveness," revealed that 77% of employees would recommend their employer as parent-friendly. The shift towards supportive policies is enhancing productivity and fostering a culture of shared responsibility in childcare, aligning with the National Family Growth Agenda 2031.

Forum focuses on building a balanced workplace environment

The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) has organised the fourth edition of the Human Resources Forum 2025 under the theme "Balancing Tensions in the Work Environment: Towards a Balanced and Sustainable Professional Environment". Hosted virtually on Microsoft Teams, the forum served as a  platform for fostering collaboration across government entities, promoting knowledge exchange, and shaping HR policies that elevate employee well-being and long-term institutional performance.
Industry Slice Icon Logo

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

UAE universities launch future-ready programmes

UAE universities are introducing innovative programmes for the 2026 academic year to prepare students for future careers. Ajman University is launching over 10 new courses, including a BSc in Artificial Intelligence and an MSc in Business Analytics. BITS Pilani Dubai is offering specialised degrees in Robotics and Biotechnology. DeMont Institute focuses on vocational training, while Gulf Medical University is expanding its healthcare offerings. Heriot-Watt University and Lincoln University are also enhancing their course selections.
Industry Slice Icon Logo

TECHNOLOGY

World's central banks are cautious of AI

The world's central banks are wary of artificial intelligence amid concerns that AI-driven behaviour could "accelerate future crises," according to a survey by the Official Monetary and Financial Institutions Forum. "AI helps us see more, but decisions must remain with people," one participant was quoted as saying in the report from a working group of 10 central banks from Europe, Africa, Latin America and Asia managing roughly $6.5tn. More than 60% of respondents said that AI tools are not yet supporting core operations. although most central banks are using AI mainly for basic work, such as summarising data or scanning markets. "Most early applications centred on routine analytical tasks rather than risk management or portfolio construction," the report said.
Industry Slice Icon Logo

INTERNATIONAL

Labour reverses day-one dismissal protection plan

The UK government has reversed its manifesto pledge to give workers protection from unfair dismissal from their first day in a job. Instead, the right will apply after six months, following pressure from business groups and opposition in the House of Lords. Ministers said the change was necessary to prevent delays to the wider Employment Rights Bill. While the Trades Union Congress welcomed the news, Unite questioned the decision, saying the Bill was now a "shell of its former self." In a joint statement, business groups including the British Chambers of Commerce, the Confederation of British Industry, and the Federation of Small Businesses said the agreement "keeps a qualifying period that is simple, meaningful, and understood within existing legislation." Ministers, meanwhile, have announced that the Fair Work Agency, which will be tasked with overseeing the new rights, will be set up in 2026.

Trade deal with Taiwan could help train US workers

The Trump administration is negotiating a trade deal with Taiwan that aims to enhance US semiconductor manufacturing through investment and workforce training, according to sources. Taiwanese companies, including TSMC, are expected to contribute capital and skilled workers to expand their US operations. Currently, Taiwan's exports to the US face a 20% tariff, which the companies hope to reduce as part of this agreement. The deal's specifics remain uncertain, but it could involve building science park infrastructure in the US. Taiwan's Premier Cho Jung-tai said that the two sides are at the stage of exchanging documents to finalize details.  "Until announced by President Donald Trump, reporting about potential trade deals is speculation," said White House spokesman Kush Desai. 

Indian trade unions unite against new labour codes

On Wednesday, a coalition of 10 major Indian trade unions staged nationwide protests against the government's new labour codes, which they labelled a "deceptive fraud" against workers. Demonstrators expressed concerns that the reforms erode job security and favour employers. Tapan Sen, general secretary of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions, said: "Workers' rights are being bulldozed." The new codes replace 29 existing laws and aim to modernise labour regulations, but unions argue they disproportionately benefit employers and restrict workers' rights. 

Italian journalists strike today over contract issues

Italian journalists will strike today due to the failure to renew their collective contract, which has been expired since 2016. The journalists' union, FNSI, said that publishers aim to implement a two-tier system, and reduce rights for new hires. FNSI Secretary Alessandra Costante observed: "We want to keep the rights that publishers want to take away from us." Journalists are also concerned about the impact of artificial intelligence on their roles. The strike marks the first protest by journalists in Italy in 20 years.
Industry Slice Icon Logo

OTHER

Tai chi can help to combat insomnia, experts say

People with chronic insomnia could benefit from practicing the ancient art of tai chi as an alternative to talking therapies, according to a study in the British Medical Journal. The researchers said their study “supports the use of tai chi as an alternative approach for the long-term management of chronic insomnia in middle-aged and older adults.”
 
Industry SLice Logo

The Human Times is designed to help you stay ahead, spark ideas and support innovation, learning and development in your organisation.

The links under articles indicate original news sources. Some links lead directly to the source material. Others lead to paywalls where you may need a subscription. A third category are restricted by copyright rules.

For reaction and insights on any stories covered in the Human Times, join the discussion by becoming a member of our LinkedIn Group or Business Page, or follow us on X.
Follow us on FacebookFollow us on XFollow us on Linkedin

This e-mail has been sent to [[EMAIL_TO]]

Click here to unsubscribe