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Middle East Edition
10th September 2026
 
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THE HOT STORY

Beware the rise of shadow AI

UAE experts are warning employers that “shadow AI” - staff using unapproved personal AI tools for work - could expose organisations to data leaks, cyberattacks, regulatory penalties and employee liability. Corporate innovation consultant Ahmed Shahrouj said rapid adoption often begins before employers have policies in place, with workers uploading contracts, financial data, meeting records or other sensitive information to external platforms. He argued that outright bans may drive usage underground and instead recommended approved tools, information classification, training and an institutional “AI Safe Zone”. Legal advisor Dr. Ammar Ali warned that unauthorised disclosure of confidential information could breach UAE data protection, cybercrime and employment laws, potentially resulting in fines, imprisonment or dismissal. Shahrouj said organisations should focus on “responsible institutional use” rather than preventing AI adoption altogether.
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WORKFORCE

Oman's labour ministry uncovers 9,910 violations

The Ministry of Labour reported 9,910 violations in the labour market, primarily involving non-Omani workers in unauthorised professions. The data revealed that 4,859 cases were linked to this issue, the highest among six monitored categories. Other significant violations included 1,952 cases of workers leaving their authorised employers and 1,117 cases of employing non-Omani workers in Omanisation-designated roles. The ministry emphasised the need for compliance with labour regulations to protect the business environment and ensure proper employment practices. "The figures highlight the importance of compliance with Omanisation policies," said a ministry spokesperson.
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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Egypt's AI strategy takes shape

Egypt is collaborating with the OECD to create a national artificial intelligence strategy. Minister of Planning and Economic Development Ahmed Rostom stated that this five-year plan aims to guide AI adoption across various sectors. It will enhance economic and social benefits while ensuring data security and efficiency. Rostom emphasised the need for regulatory frameworks to promote transparency and accountability. He noted that Egypt's manufacturing sector has seen consistent growth, contributing significantly to the economy, and highlighted the importance of upskilling workers to keep pace with technological advancements.

Qatar's AI future: a local approach

Dr Thamer al-Qadi, director of information technology at Katara Cultural Village, emphasised Qatar's potential to leverage AI for local solutions while ensuring security and privacy. He highlighted the importance of Agentic AI in enhancing public services and recommended starting with low-risk applications. Al-Qadi stressed the need for strong safeguards and human oversight in AI adoption. He also called for educational reforms to equip students with critical skills for the future. Ultimately, he believes Qatar can become a regional hub for technology development and export, combining global advances with local priorities.

Google ramps up AI chip hiring

Google is expanding its operations in Israel by forming a new team focused on developing artificial intelligence chips for robots and autonomous systems. Guy Kaminitz, previously of Hailo, has been appointed as the silicon engineering head. He stated: "We are building a world-class engineering group here in Israel from the ground up." Google is actively recruiting engineers for various roles, including silicon validation and machine learning hardware architecture. This hiring initiative comes amid layoffs in the tech sector as companies adapt to the automation era.

AI won't steal your job

Experts warn that employees should not overly rely on AI for routine tasks, as this can diminish essential human skills. AI can efficiently handle repetitive work, but critical thinking, accountability, and interpersonal relationships must remain human-led. Alexandre Depret-Bixio, SVP International at Anomali, advised using AI to enhance existing skills while being cautious with new tasks. Ergul Hemmingsen, chief human capital officer at Core42, noted that productivity improves when employees retain responsibility for decision-making. Ultimately, workers should focus on using AI to free up time for more meaningful tasks, fostering innovation and collaboration.
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PRODUCTIVITY

Meta's AI assistant aims for superintelligence

Meta has launched its AI assistant, Muse, designed to provide "personal superintelligence" to users. This initiative aims to diversify revenue beyond advertising, with investments in AI infrastructure expected to exceed $130bn this year. Initially available in the US, Muse can autonomously manage tasks like sending emails and booking travel. However, internal tests have revealed mixed results, with some employees praising its utility while others reported security flaws. Vishal Shah, Meta's vice president of AI products, acknowledged the challenges but emphasised the system's design for safety and privacy.
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CORPORATE

Abu Dhabi's financial centre booming

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) reported significant growth in the first half of 2026, with AUM rising 54% year on year to over $2.1trn. The number of fund and asset managers increased to 190, while active licences reached 13,974. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, chair of ADGM, said: “The scale of growth we are witnessing... demonstrates sustained international confidence in Abu Dhabi as a stable, trusted and globally connected financial hub.” ADGM also plans to invest over Dh400m in technology to enhance its digital infrastructure and AI capabilities.
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WORKPLACE

Report workplace issues with ease

Private sector employees in Dubai can now report unpaid wages and unsafe conditions through the Worker's Voice service, launched in July 2026. This digital platform, developed by Dubai Police and Digital Dubai, allows workers to submit complaints directly via the DubaiNow app, eliminating the need for in-person visits. Employees can report various issues, including salary disputes and health concerns, using their UAE PASS for access. To file a complaint, users must provide details about the organisation and supporting evidence. The service is free and aims to streamline the complaint process for workers.
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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Israel's education scores plummet

Israel's performance in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) has significantly declined, ranking 43rd globally and 33rd among developed countries. The country recorded its lowest scores in reading, math, and science, with an average drop of 29 points across all subjects. Education Minister Yoav Kisch attributed the results to the challenging conditions during the tests, citing ongoing conflicts. Critics, including Yesh Atid MK Meirav Cohen, described the results as a serious indictment of the education system, calling for urgent reforms to address the alarming trends.

New education framework prioritises graduate success

The UAE's new higher education framework emphasises graduate outcomes and employment alignment. Dr Ahmed Sultan Al Shuaibi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, stated that learning outcomes will be assessed by industry experts to ensure graduates possess necessary skills. This shift encourages universities to involve industry in course design and assessment. Abu Dhabi University is already adapting by increasing industry participation and utilising AI to track graduate employment. The Ministry aims to enhance confidence in qualifications, ensuring they reflect relevant skills for the labour market.

Oman schools to boost specialised programmes

The Ministry of Education in Oman is expanding specialised study programmes in schools to align education with labour market needs. New pathways in engineering, industrial studies, travel and tourism, information technology, and business administration will equip students with essential skills for future careers. The initiative aims to enhance practical learning and problem-solving abilities, preparing students for higher education and employment opportunities. The ministry emphasised the importance of qualified staff and facilities for effective implementation. This expansion reflects Oman's commitment to developing human capital and meeting future economic demands.
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DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

UAE champions women-led growth at BRICS

The UAE delegation participated in the BRICS Women-Led Development Summit 2026 in New Delhi, focusing on trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration to enhance women-led economic growth. Feryal Ahmadi, chair of the UAE Chapter, emphasised transforming networks into practical opportunities. Ayesha Al Mulla highlighted the alliance's role in connecting women to investments and expertise. Badreya Al Maidoor stressed the need for knowledge and capital for sustainable businesses. Prof. Dr. Hoda Alkhzaimi called for women to lead in shaping future economies. The UAE's participation reflects a shift towards measuring women-led development by economic value creation.

Empowering women through vibrant markets

The HER Tel Aviv International Summer Festival showcased over 50 businesses run by female immigrants in Tel Aviv. Founder and chief executive Sivan Hadari stated that the event aimed to highlight diversity and support women in building lives in Israel. Participants included The Pickle Jar, which offers unique pickles, and Talia C, known for handmade Judaica and keepsakes. Panel discussions addressed the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, with speakers like Ora Korazim from WIZO emphasising the need for support. The festival also featured workshops, live music, and a comedy show, fostering community connections.

Empowering abilities: job fair success

The Ministry of Labour, through the Directorate General of Labour in Dhofar Governorate, hosted a job fair aimed at persons with disabilities in Salalah. The event featured over 100 job opportunities from 50 private sector companies, promoting direct engagement between job seekers and employers. Nasser Salim Al Hadhrami, director general of the Directorate, highlighted the fair's role in raising awareness about the importance of employing individuals with disabilities. The initiative aligns with the Ministry's strategy to enhance employment policies and create pathways for integrating disabled individuals into the workforce.
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INTERNATIONAL

Fit notes risk limiting UK's young workers

UK Government adviser Alan Milburn has criticised the GP fit note system, arguing that brief consultations can push young people with conditions such as ADHD into long-term welfare dependency rather than employment. Nearly 1m fit notes for mental health issues were issued last year, while UK youth inactivity stands at 13.6%, compared with under 5% in the Netherlands. Milburn called the system “bloody insane” and warned that receiving a diagnosis should not automatically imply someone cannot work. Sir Gareth Southgate similarly cautioned against labels that can restrict young people’s expectations. Milburn also criticised apprenticeships, noting youth placements have fallen 35% in nine years, while Southgate highlighted the value of workplace mentoring and warned that higher employment costs may discourage businesses from hiring younger workers.

Italy leads EU pay transparency shift

Most EU countries missed the June deadline to implement the Pay Transparency Directive, designed to reduce pay discrimination and improve salary visibility for jobseekers. Italy has emerged as a leading adopter, with the share of job postings containing salary information rising from 26% in July 2025 to 61% in July 2026, overtaking the UK at 60%. Germany and Spain remain far behind at 14% and 18%, respectively, while France stands at 43% and the Netherlands at 49.5%. Italy requires employers to include starting salaries or pay ranges directly in advertisements, going beyond the directive’s baseline requirements. Pawel Adrjan, Indeed’s director of economic research, said the country’s experience suggests “regulation is making a real difference.” Advocates argue broader implementation could help address the EU gender pay gap, which stood at 11.1% in 2024. However, delayed implementation elsewhere means salary transparency remains inconsistent across Europe.
 
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