The latest gulf round table in Dubai Media City, brought HR, tech, and AV experts from across the GCC together. They gathered to discuss how workplaces are changing. Their focus was on how meeting spaces must evolve to support hybrid teams, inclusion, and smooth collaboration.
HR priorities in GCC workplaces
First, attendees stressed the human side. HR leaders said workspaces must support both in-office and remote staff. They argued that meeting rooms no longer serve only in-person teams. Instead, rooms should offer an equal experience for remote participants.
For example, one HR advisor noted that inclusivity now shapes workspace design. They said, “Spaces must adapt to diverse teams, time zones and skill levels.” Next, the group discussed generational gaps. Younger staff often expect seamless tech. Older employees may prefer simple setups. Therefore, HR must plan for training and structured support.
As a result, the roundtable highlighted that GCC firms must now balance advanced technology with user readiness. They referred to this shift as a “people-first” approach to collaboration.
Why technology matters with HR oversight
Then the conversation turned to technology. AV and IT specialists explained how audio quality, plug-and-play tools, and unified systems are transforming meeting rooms. They argued that these changes help foster engagement for both onsite and remote staff.
Importantly, HR plays a key role. They must ensure employees adapt smoothly. Without guidance, new tools may intimidate some participants. However, with steady HR support, everyone can benefit. The gulf round table emphasized that training and change management are essential.
Thus, modern collaboration is not only about new technology. It also depends on human readiness. In the GCC region, companies are now prioritizing both.
The GCC angle: culture, diversity, and inclusion
In GCC workplaces, diversity is the norm. Teams span nationalities, languages, ages, and roles. As a result, collaboration spaces must be flexible and inclusive. The roundtable highlighted that meeting rooms now serve multiple purposes, such as corporate meetings, trainings, wellness sessions, and more.
Moreover, HR experts explained that cultural sensitivity matters. For example, some teams may prefer certain room setups. Others may need gender-sensitive arrangements or language support. Therefore, meeting spaces must adapt to diverse needs.
In this context, unified and simple systems make a significant difference. Employees feel confident. Collaboration improves. Trust builds across diverse teams. This is what many GCC firms now aim for based on the gulf round table insights.
What firms should do next
Finally, the gulf round table concluded with clear guidance. First, design meeting spaces with people in mind, not only technology. Second, offer training and support to all employees. Third, standardize tools across offices to ensure ease of use. Lastly, review policies regularly to match evolving workforce needs.
With these steps, GCC companies can build workplaces that support hybrid work, inclusion, and collaboration. They can transform meeting rooms into dynamic spaces where every voice matters.
The gulf round table made one thing clear: the future of workplace design in the GCC depends on smart technology, but only when it works for people.
