Experts Weigh In: AI’s Role in Transforming Jobs, Not Eliminating Them

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workforce, with industry experts agreeing that while AI itself may not directly replace jobs, individuals who fail to harness its potential could find themselves outpaced by others who do. This sentiment was at the center of recent discussions following a statement by Omar Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, at a Federal National Council meeting last week.

Al Olama suggested that Emiratis nearing retirement age could be offered early retirement if their roles can be automated by AI. The proposal has sparked debate among HR professionals and industry leaders on AI’s evolving impact on employment.

Abu Dhabi-based HR expert Shamma Hazza supported the idea of early retirement for jobs susceptible to automation. She emphasized its potential to encourage younger generations to adopt advanced technologies, fostering innovation. However, she highlighted that certain roles—particularly those requiring emotional intelligence, leadership, and critical thinking—cannot be fully replaced by AI.

“In my opinion, AI will not replace many jobs but will transform them to perform better,” Hazza said, underscoring AI’s potential to enhance productivity rather than disrupt livelihoods.

Omar Fadhel, Assistant Undersecretary of MoIAT’s Industrial Accelerators Sector, echoed this perspective. He noted that the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has launched initiatives aimed at integrating advanced technology into industrial processes. According to Fadhel, skilled workers stand to benefit from AI integration, as these technologies often require human oversight and expertise.

“Our goal is to strengthen the adoption of advanced technology and artificial intelligence by factories to raise competitiveness and quality,” Fadhel said, emphasizing that AI complements, rather than replaces, the human workforce in sophisticated industries.

Veteran HR consultant Hanadi Al Jaber pointed to the practical use of AI in human resources, such as streamlining application screenings and shortlisting candidates. While these functions reduce manual tasks, Al Jaber argued that AI ultimately frees up time for HR professionals to enhance their skills and focus on strategic growth.

“AI tools save time, enabling HR professionals to grow their skills,” she said.

Mira Nasser, a learning and development lead at an Abu Dhabi holding company, emphasized that administrative roles are particularly vulnerable to AI-driven transformations. However, she sees this as an opportunity rather than a threat.

“People will lose their jobs to others who effectively use AI, not to AI itself,” Nasser said, advocating for upskilling to remain competitive.

Nasser, like others, welcomed the idea of early retirement for administrative roles. She described it as a transition rather than the end of a career, highlighting the potential to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or family businesses.

As AI continues to shape the future of work, experts agree that adaptability and skill development will be key to thriving in an AI-driven economy.