Technology is changing workplaces faster than organisations can redesign work, according to a new report from the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF). The foundation says many companies are using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve productivity. However, most have yet to rethink hiring, job design or workplace culture.
The report, released after the Dubai Future Forum 2025, argues that AI should not only make work faster. Instead, it should help create more meaningful and sustainable workplaces.
AI is improving productivity, but workplace systems remain unchanged
According to the report, many organisations have adopted AI to automate workflows, assign tasks and increase output with fewer employees. As a result, businesses are becoming more efficient.
However, deeper workplace systems have changed far more slowly. Hiring practices, organisational structures and leadership models still reflect traditional ways of working. Consequently, many companies continue to optimise for speed rather than redesigning the employee experience.
The report warns that this gap between technological progress and organisational change could limit the long-term value of AI adoption.
Ageing populations will reshape global labour markets
The report also highlights major demographic changes that will reshape the future workforce.
Citing the OECD Employment Outlook 2025, it notes that the old-age dependency ratio is expected to rise from 31% in 2023 to 52% by 2060. In practical terms, there could be 52 older dependants for every 100 working-age people. This shift will increase pressure on labour markets, economic growth and social support systems.
Without stronger policy action, GDP per capita growth across OECD economies could slow by around 40%, the report says. The OECD also notes that many economies now face a shortage of workers rather than a shortage of jobs.
Human skills will become the strongest competitive advantage
While AI continues to automate routine work, the report says uniquely human capabilities will become more valuable.
Speakers at the Dubai Future Forum identified judgement, ethical reasoning, imagination, critical thinking and relational leadership as essential future skills. They also stressed that employees must learn to interpret complex situations instead of simply processing information.
As knowledge becomes increasingly accessible through AI, organisations will place greater value on people who can provide context, make sound decisions and lead through uncertainty.
Education must evolve alongside AI
The report also urges education systems to adapt to the AI era.
It predicts that universities will increasingly coordinate innovation across industries instead of acting as the sole drivers of research. At the same time, schools and employers should place greater emphasis on curiosity, creativity and deep thinking.
According to the report, an excessive focus on speed and immediate results could weaken these qualities. Therefore, educators and employers should actively develop skills that help future workers make better decisions and adapt to rapid change.
AI adoption requires organisational transformation
The Dubai Future Foundation concludes that AI adoption alone will not prepare organisations for the future of work.
Instead, business leaders should redesign jobs, strengthen leadership capabilities and invest in human-centred skills. These changes will help organisations realise the full benefits of AI while building resilient and adaptable workforces.
