With an impressive turnout at the Ru’ya Careers Fair, which draws thousands of job seekers over three days, companies face challenges in selecting the best candidates and conducting immediate interviews. To address this, some organizations are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) for candidate selection.
Alia Yousef from E& detailed how AI processes job applications, stating, “Applicants can apply via a dedicated iPad where their data and CVs are entered, and a job opening is created for each applicant.”
AI mapping then takes place, analyzing the gathered data to align applicants with the most suitable positions. The system evaluates several factors, including specializations, graduation dates, degree types (high school, bachelor’s, master’s), and the candidates’ experience level in their professional fields.
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After identifying the right position, AI-powered assessments are conducted to evaluate candidates’ suitability based on the required skills and experience.
“Successful candidates will have an immediate interview with hiring managers at the exhibition,” she added.
Alia Yousef
Though recruitment isn’t finalized at the fair, E& aims to expedite the hiring process and follow-up opportunities post-exhibition.
Khaleej Times observed that AI is utilized on the E& platform in various forms, like hologram tubes showcasing AI-driven information about different departments.
Additionally, they feature an AI Photo Booth that turns visitors’ photos into cartoons, with print options available.
There’s also an AI-driven robot Barista, a coffee-making robot serving coffee and ice cream based on visitors’ mood and topping choices, with an interactive display.
Robot barista. Photo: Sara Alkuwari
Interviews with AI avatar
This year, for the first time, the company is utilizing the ‘Avatar AI’ system for initial interviews with fresh graduates, according to Manal Matar, Head of Employee Experience and HR Digitalization (Acting) at du.
Two rooms are set up for virtual interviews where candidates meet an AI avatar for their interview.
Manal explained that candidates can scan a QR code to access available positions for fresh graduates and conduct an interview with Khalid’s avatar. These interviews, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, focus on behavior, interaction style, and overall personality of the candidates. “It’s user-friendly and easy to use,” she added.
Manal Matar. Photo: du
The AI system then provides scores and recommendations for role matching. “Interviews are recorded for review, and suitable candidates proceed to the next interview round.”
She noted that AI interviews target fresh graduates, while experienced candidates are interviewed directly by recruiters.
Unbiased AI
Similarly, Abdulaziz AlFalahi, General Supervisor of Private Sector Recruitment Operations at the Emirati Human Resources Development Council, explained, “When a CV is submitted, the AI system analyzes it to find the best vacancies. It then shortlists these options, allowing candidates to apply directly. Recruiters receive immediate notifications upon application submission.”
Abdulaziz AlFalahi
He added, “Recruiters can schedule interviews and even conduct them online. During virtual interviews, AI monitors for bias and evaluates both recruiter and candidate performance, providing constructive feedback for improvement.”
Virtual HR agent
Previously, Khaleej Times reported that the UAE’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) launched a new HR AI Agent to transform HR service delivery for the federal workforce. This system acts as a virtual HR and legal advisor, offering real-time, personalized support across over 100 services, including legal & HR inquiries, applications, performance management, and payroll. It’s voice-enabled, multilingual, and context-aware.
The HR AI Agent is projected to save about 55,000 employee hours annually, reduce HR help desk inquiries by 50%, and improve response efficiency to policy and compliance questions.
