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2. From your perspective, what are the most urgent workforce challenges facing the Middle East in the next five years?  (Raed Rajeh)

Recent government policies across the Middle East have prioritised widespread upskilling in emerging technologies, recognising the critical importance of preparing the workforce for rapid digital transformation. According to the Pearson 2025 Value of IT Certification Candidate report, 92% of respondents indicated that certification has become more important than ever in the current technological landscape. The report further highlights that over 80% of professionals believe that advances in artificial intelligence will significantly impact both existing roles and the creation of new career pathways within the next five years.

In light of these findings, the region’s focus on AI-related skills and certifications is strategically aligned with anticipated shifts in the job market. By investing in targeted certification programs, Middle Eastern organisations are working to ensure that their workforce remains agile, adaptable, and equipped to leverage new efficiencies and opportunities brought by technological innovation. These efforts are essential for maintaining competitiveness and fostering sustainable economic growth in an increasingly technology-driven global environment.

3. Your latest Pearson VUE report reveals a surge in certification interest. Why do you think certification has become so important right now? (Dr Gary Gates)

A significant increase in the emphasis on certification can be attributed to several key factors highlighted in the 2025 Pearson Value of IT Certification Candidate report. The report reveals that 92% of respondents now consider certification more important than ever due to the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The motivations for pursuing certification are multifaceted, encompassing career advancement, validation of professional skills, and the need to remain competitive in a dynamic job market increasingly shaped by advances in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. These findings underscore the critical role of certification as both a benchmark of proficiency and a strategic tool for workforce resilience and adaptability. 

The majority of candidates cited skilling as their primary reason for pursuing certification, with 43% of respondents selecting this as their top motivation. The next most-mentioned motivation was to qualify for job promotions, as reported by 24% of candidates. Additionally, 14% of candidates indicated that enhancing their resumes and professional profiles was most important.

4. How are certifications helping organizations and professionals stay ahead in an AI-driven world? – (Dr Gary Gates)

Artificial intelligence is anticipated to impact the majority of industries and professions in the foreseeable future, representing a significant disruptive force comparable to the advent of the internet. According to the Pearson 2025 Value of IT Certification Candidate report, 69% of candidates reported that their employers have either started or increased investments in AI. In Middle East and Africa, 62% of candidates reported increases in AI investments by their employers. Certifications play a critical role in equipping individuals with the necessary skills and providing validated proof of their competencies to meet evolving workforce demands. While traditional education continues to be important, certifications offer an additional, verified demonstration of a candidate’s abilities, skill sets, and commitment to continuous learning, which is increasingly valued by employers. 

5. What specific skills or competencies should HR and L&D leaders in the region focus on today to stay competitive? (Raed Rajeh)

A key competency that transcends specific industries or professions is the capacity for continuous learning, often referred to as “learning to learn.” Given the accelerated pace of technological advancement, the nature of many occupations is subject to significant change over relatively short periods—such as three, five, or ten years. To remain relevant in this dynamic environment, individuals must recognise the imperative of lifelong learning and develop the ability to acquire new knowledge and skills as technologies and professional requirements evolve.

6. Can you share any insights on how Middle East companies are approaching upskilling and talent retention through learning and certification? (Raed Rajeh)

The Middle East is at a pivotal moment in its workforce evolution. With national strategies like Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE’s AI roadmap leading the way, companies are rethinking how they build and retain talent. Upskilling is no longer a side initiative, it’s a strategic priority.

What’s especially encouraging is how organizations are embedding learning into the employee experience. Certifications, particularly in areas like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity, are being used not just to validate skills, but to open doors - whether that’s a promotion, a new role, or a broader career path.

AI is accelerating this shift. As roles evolve, so does the need for adaptable, future-ready talent. Companies are responding by investing in both technical and human skills—critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving are just as important as coding or data analysis.

Ultimately, the organizations that succeed will be those that treat learning as a long-term investment, not a one-time fix. In a region defined by ambition and transformation, that mindset is what will set the leaders apart.

7. What advice would you give to HR and learning professionals who are rethinking their workforce strategies for the future? (Dr Gary Gates)

HR and learning professionals reassessing workforce strategies should prioritise the cultivation of a continuous learning culture within their organisations. According to the 2025 Pearson Value of IT Certification Candidate report, 92% of respondents believe that certification is more critical now than ever before, largely due to rapid technological advancements. The report further highlights that individuals who obtain certifications demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development, which 88% of employers identify as a key advantage in hiring and talent retention. In addition to technical proficiency, the advancement of essential skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, interpersonal abilities, and problem-solving is increasingly valued by employers. Establishing a learning environment that supports the ongoing acquisition of both technical and soft skills is therefore vital for maintaining workforce competitiveness and organisational resilience in an AI-driven economy.

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