Session One

Top 10 Tips for a Successful HR & Payroll Transformation Project
In this session Afrooz will provide key insights for organisations looking to improve their HR & payroll operations. HR & Payroll transformations can be complex, but with the right approach, it can increase efficiency, ensure compliance, and improve overall accuracy. This session will cover the ten most important steps, including setting clear goals, gaining leadership support, choosing the right technology, managing data, and handling change effectively.  Afrooz will share real-life experiences, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips to ensure a smooth transition.
Speaker: Afrooz Mohammed Founder & Director @ ProHRPay

REGISTRATION AND REFRESHMENTS

NETWORKING AND REFRESHMENTS

Session Two

In-House vs. Outsourced HR & Payroll: Making the Right Choice for Your Business
In this session we will explore the key considerations for organisations deciding between managing payroll internally or outsourcing to a third-party provider. Aspects around control, data security, technology investments, compliance expertise and scale surrounding these payroll models will be highlighted. This session will provide a balanced discussion on the cost, compliance, efficiency, and strategic implications of both approaches, helping organizations determine the best fit for their payroll operations
Speaker:  Smruti Varma, Partner - Payroll Operate - EY

Session Three

Payroll, HR & Labour Law Updates: What’s Changing in Dubai & the Middle East?
Payroll and HR laws in the Middle East are evolving fast, and businesses need to stay up to date. This session will break down the latest changes, with a special focus on the new ADGM Employment Regulations and what they mean for employers, payroll teams, and HR professionals.
Key topics include:

• ADGM Employment Regulations: What’s new and how it affects businesses.
• Payroll & HR Impact: Changes to salaries, benefits, and compliance requirements.
• UAE Labour Law Updates: Key reforms in Dubai and the wider UAE, including wage protection and pensions.
• Regional Compliance Trends: How businesses across the GCC can keep up.
• Best Practices: Simple steps to stay compliant and avoid risks.

Speaker:  Dilini Loku, Senior Associate @ Gateley Middle East, Thenji Moyo, Partner Gateley UK LLP

Session Four

The Future of Payroll in the Middle East – Innovations, Challenges & Opportunities
The payroll landscape in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai, is undergoing a significant transformation driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving labour laws, and the region’s push towards digitalisation. This panel session will explore how businesses can navigate these changes while ensuring compliance, efficiency, and a seamless employee experience.  Industry leaders and payroll experts will share insights on how organizations can future-proof their payroll strategies to align with the region’s ambitious vision for economic growth and workforce development.
Panellists:
Owain Walters, Head of Mass Payments at Ebury
Solena Banks, Business Development Director at ADP
Vijaya Nair, Principal Consultant at Emplify Consulting FZE