DIEZ Unveils Its Strategic HR Plan for 2024-2026.

Dubai: The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has launched its strategic human resources (HR) plan for 2024-2026, marking a significant milestone in DIEZ's journey to develop a comprehensive HR system. This system aims to create a work environment that enhances the performance of human resources and talents within DIEZ and its affiliated economic zones, thereby increasing employee loyalty and retention. According to Emirates News Agency, this HR strategic plan aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to advance government operations and systems and improve the quality of life, positioning Dubai among the top three cities globally in terms of living standards. The strategic plan is built on five main pillars: investing in staff, developing an optimal work environment, increasing levels of Emiratisation, adopting the most effective and advanced systems, and leveraging human resources as business developers. Y ousuf Behzad, Chief People and Organisational Development Officer at DIEZ, emphasized the importance of adopting plans and strategies to sustain a flexible work environment. This involves identifying human resources requirements, especially in light of the increasing reliance on AI technologies, ensuring the anticipation and meeting of future job demands. Implementing advanced technologies such as AI is a top priority for the human resources department, aiming to improve the quality, speed, and efficiency of government services. DIEZ is committed to increasing Emiratisation rates within the authority and its economic zones as part of its strategic priority to develop a robust human resources ecosystem. The authority aims to achieve several key objectives in this area, particularly by preparing UAE nationals for leadership and senior roles, which currently boast an Emiratisation rate of 88 percent. The strategic plan encompasses several initiatives and programmes aimed at achieving key outcomes, such as acce lerating client service processes, enhancing financial efficiency, and continuously adopting the latest technologies in business support services. Key initiatives include launching an employee entrepreneurship programme, a youth skills and leadership development programme, an Emirati graduate programme, and a national talent attraction and capability development programme. Furthermore, DIEZ has collaborated with both government and private sectors, including a partnership with the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in Dubai. This collaboration aims to implement joint research projects and provide internship and professional training opportunities for university students at DIEZ. The strategic plan also includes initiatives to increase workplace flexibility, boost productivity, and foster sustainable development, alongside establishing a comprehensive rewards and incentives system. DIEZ recently launched initiatives to embrace technological advancements, including the implementation of Microsoft 365 Cop ilot to accelerate innovation, drive digital transformation, and adopt AI-powered solutions. Additionally, DIEZ encompasses three well-established free zones: Dubai Airport Free Zone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity, employing an integrated approach to enhance their role in bolstering the national economy.