Leading in the age of AI: Building a high-performing GCC workforce

Adopting AI without developing line leadership standards introduces significant operational risk. With research indicating the GCC requires 700,000 additional middle and senior managers by 2030 (Strategy&, 2025), developing confident, capable leaders is critical to achieving national workforce ambitions, accelerating productivity and maximising the return on AI investment. Join the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) in Dubai for an exclusive panel discussion bringing together regional leaders, industry experts and policymakers. Together, we will explore practical strategies to build future-ready leadership capability, embed responsible AI adoption ethically, and create cultures of continuous learning that support sustainable organisational performance. Key discussion themes Our expert panel will explore: • Building an AI-ready workforce: How GCC organisations can identify future skills needs and develop the leadership capability required to support AI adoption. • The future leader The practical leadership capabilities needed to lead teams, manage change and deliver measurable value from AI. • Human skills in a digital workplace: Why critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence and ethical judgment remain essential in an AI-enabled workplace. • Creating a culture of continuous learning: How organisations can embed learning into everyday work to build long-term capability. • Responsible AI leadership: How leaders can ensure AI adoption is ethical, compliant and aligned with organisational goals. • Driving productivity through people and technology: Real-world examples of how GCC organisations are combining digital tools with leadership development to improve performance. Additional highlights The event will also include: • CMI Leadership for AI qualifications showcase: An overview of CMI pathways quality-assured to align with the UAE's Outcomes-Based Evaluation Framework (OBEF), licensed by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA). • Chartered Manager recognition: A celebration of newly awarded Chartered Managers (CMgr). • Networking: Opportunities to connect with senior leaders, employers and CMI members from across the GCC. For experienced leaders this provides an opportunity to engage on a peer to peer level. For students, this provides a direct line to ask questions and learn from established leaders. • Informal discussion and refreshments. Click here to find out more about our expert speakers. For more information about CMI Middle East you can visit the webpage here You can also follow CMI Middle East on LinkedIn here • Looking to influence the next generation of managers and leaders? Check out our exclusive mentoring programme. • Take the next step in your career; our self-assessment tool tailors a management development plan especially for you. • Get the professional recognition you deserve! Find out if you are eligible for our exclusive Chartered Manager award. • Join the CMI membership community today for just £15 a month and get access to countless management & leadership events and tailored resources, just for you! • Looking to develop professionally and take the next step in your career? Our Management Diagnostics tool is for you!