Session One

What is a Payroll Strategy? Why is it important now, more than ever? What does it really mean and what does it take to develop one?
In this session, Simon will unpick what makes-up a Payroll Strategy, some of the challenges often seen and how best to tackle them. He will walk you through a step-by-step approach and bring it to life with real examples, hints, and tips that you can
take back with you to your business.
Speaker: Simon Puryer, Executive Director – Head of Payroll, Lace Partners

REGISTRATION AND REFRESHMENTS

NETWORKING AND REFRESHMENTS

Session Two

The growth clock: Payroll & time in the MENA region. Unlocking the Regional potential.
Solena will explore how smarter payroll and time management can unlock the region’s true growth
potential—driving efficiency, compliance, and sustainable success.
Speaker: Solena Banks, Business Development Director, ADP

Session Three

Oman’s Landmark Personal Income Tax Law
Oman has taken a historic step with the introduction of its first Personal Income Tax Law, issued in
June 2025 and coming into effect in January 2028. The law, which will apply a modest 5% tax on high
earners, is designed to broaden the nation’s revenue base and support Vision 2040 objectives. Smruti
will review the key provisions and what this means for employers, employees, and the payroll landscape in the region.
Speaker:  Smruti Varma 

Session Four

Decoding Payroll & Labour Law: Top 10 Trends Impacting the UAE Market
The UAE’s employment landscape is evolving rapidly, with new legislative updates and compliance expectations reshaping how organisations manage pay and people. This session will unpack the top ten payroll and labour law trends currently impacting the UAE market — from remuneration packages, allowances, and benefits to equal pay and the growing focus on fair reward structures. We’ll explore the complexities of bonus versus commission schemes, long-term incentive plans, and WPS compliance, as well as key employment considerations such as dual employment, termination payments, and unemployment insurance. With changes surrounding End of Service Gratuity and the introduction of alternate savings schemes, attendees will gain a clear understanding of how to stay compliant, competitive, and future-ready in this dynamic regulatory environment.hyy87
Speaker: Dilini Loku, Senior Associate for Gateley Middle East and Thenji Moyo, Partner for Gateley Middle East

Session Five

Shaping the Future of Payroll in MENA: Technology, Trends, and Egypt’s Next Chapter
Join regional experts as they explore how technology, regulation, and shifting workforce dynamics are
reshaping payroll across MENA. This panel will spotlight emerging trends, regional opportunities, and
provide a timely update on Egypt’s evolving payroll landscape.
Panelists:
Sachin Goklaney, Chief Business Officer, Mynd Integrated Solutions Pvt Ltd
Afrooz Mohammed, Founder & Director, ProHRPay Consulting Services LLC
Mayada Maged, Managing Partner, Staff Arabia
Nicholas Joy, Head of Global Payroll Sales, TransferMate