Launched last year as the CIPD's only international conference outside of the UK and Ireland, the CIPD Middle East People Conference & Awards has already become a not-to-be-missed rendez-vous for the people community from the region. 

Taking place on 2 - 3 September at Sofitel The Palm, the 2020 edition brings together 160+ senior HR professionals, innovative start-ups and some of the brightest minds in business all under one roof. 

If you’re still wondering whether to take part, here are six reasons why you shouldn’t miss out. 

#1 The content: Bold ideas and practical insights

Featuring regional case studies, international speakers and the latest insights from the CIPD, the CIPD Middle East People Conference & Awards is the place to be inspired, share your practices and gain practical insights into the world of work.  

Centred around the theme of ‘Leading the way – From intent to impact’, this two-day event provides you with the opportunity to engage in an action-led discussion around hot topics such as mental health at work, diversity, agility and nationalisation.

#2 The community: Form strong connections with industry peers

Networking within and outside your organisation is essential in order to build alliances and gain perspective on your work. At #CIPDME, not only are the attendees senior and from diverse backgrounds, but they also share a passion for learning. And to ensure you build genuine connections with your peers even if you’re not a born networker, there will be facilitated networking sessions, hands-on workshops, focus groups and informal receptions throughout the event.

#3 The motivation: Invest in your team's development

Nominating your team members to attend #CIPDME can be a great way to fuel their motivation, encourage them on their development journey and challenge them to take action. They can choose to attend 3 hands-on workshops and take part in numerous interactive sessions to further hone their skills in specific areas. Watch as them leave empowered as a group to bring tangible takeaways back to the workplace. What’s more, attendees will receive a number of templates to help them structure their key learnings. 

#4 The fun: Who said learning had to be boring?

We believe the HR community in the region could use a platform where to spend a relaxed time with peers and have fun. After all, HR and L&D professionals are often responsible for coming up with innovative team-building ideas. This year, we’re bringing more icebreakers, giving you more time to network and infusing some fun into the programme. 

#5 No fluff: Hear the science behind soft topics 

Topics such as trust, agility, diversity or well-being are often perceived as ‘fluffy’. Most sessions around these topics fail to be thought-provoking or discuss less tangible actions. We believe that professional opinion carriers more weight when it’s supported by strong evidence. That’s why, at #CIPDME, bold topics are tackled head on through evidence-based case studies, personal accounts and genuine debates. You will hear speakers and the audience discuss everything you wish common literature would discuss – and it’s all backed by data.

#6 Innovation: Meet some of the UAE's top HR start-ups

We all know that companies worldwide are fighting hard to hire, retain and nurture talent. In addition to keeping up with the latest trends in technology, businesses today must also plan and implement creative HR ideas or they risk falling behind. From hiring new employees efficiently, onboarding them enthusiastically, training them strategically and engaging all employees thoughtfully, there are many opportunities to stand out with creative HR practices. The Start-Up Hub at the CIPD Middle East People Conference & Awards showcases some of the UAE’s most innovative HR start-ups. 

Interested in joining us? Download the event brochure and secure your seat here.