Experts say organizations must redesign jobs and skills as AI becomes a workplace partner
Artificial intelligence is no longer limited to answering questions or automating repetitive tasks. A new generation of “agentic” AI systems can analyze information, support complex decisions and perform multiple tasks across entire workflows, changing how organizations operate and how employees interact with technology.
As businesses and governments embrace these more capable AI tools, the conversation is shifting from replacing workers to redesigning the workplace itself. That means rethinking leadership, skills, governance and the balance between human judgment and machine intelligence. Those themes were at the center of discussions during a Dubai government forum examining how agentic AI is reshaping the future of work.
AI enters workplaces
The rise of agentic artificial intelligence is forcing organizations to rethink how jobs are designed, employees are trained and leaders make decisions.
These systems move beyond traditional automation by supporting complex decision-making and integrating directly into everyday business operations. Unlike conventional AI tools that perform isolated tasks, agentic AI can work across multiple workflows, helping organizations improve efficiency while changing how work is distributed between people and machines.
These developments were highlighted during the first edition of DGHR Multaqa 2026, organized by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department under the title “HR in the Agentic Age” and the theme “Agents at Work. Humans in Charge. Policy as Guide.”
Participants said the technology is already reshaping workforce structures and organizational performance, requiring employers to redefine roles and responsibilities in an increasingly AI-enabled workplace.
Skills become critical
One of the forum’s key messages was that future workforce success will depend on developing new capabilities rather than simply adopting new technologies.
As AI agents increasingly perform routine and analytical work, demand is shifting toward skills such as critical thinking, oversight of automated systems and the ability to collaborate effectively with intelligent technologies.
Speakers emphasized that preparing employees for these changes requires continuous learning, workforce development and stronger institutional readiness to ensure organizations can adapt as AI capabilities continue to evolve.
Humans stay responsible
Discussions also highlighted the evolution of leadership in an AI-driven workplace.
While agentic AI can analyze information, generate recommendations and support decision-making, participants stressed that responsibility and accountability must remain with people.
“Artificial intelligence can support work, analyse information and provide recommendations, but it cannot replace human judgement or assume responsibility for decisions,” said Abdullah Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department.
The emerging leadership model therefore requires executives to manage hybrid teams consisting of both human employees and AI agents while maintaining transparency, trust and accountability throughout the decision-making process.
New HR priorities
The forum also examined how artificial intelligence is transforming human resources itself.
AI is increasingly influencing recruitment, employee experience, performance management and other HR functions, creating the need for stronger governance frameworks that ensure responsible and transparent use of intelligent systems.
A white paper presented during the event called for clear policies covering accountability, transparency and institutional trust as AI becomes more deeply embedded across HR operations.
Participants agreed that while agentic AI has the potential to improve efficiency and enhance decision quality, successful adoption will depend on balancing technological innovation with human-centered values and effective governance.
As organizations continue adopting these systems, the future of work is expected to be shaped less by human replacement than by workplace reconfiguration, with AI handling more operational tasks while people continue providing leadership, oversight and final decision-making.