The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is bringing back its flagship Saudi Arabia Conference and Exhibition for 2025, set for November 17–18 at the Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention. In partnership with QnA International, ATD’s eighth edition promises to be the Kingdom’s most influential gathering for HR, learning, and development professionals.
This year’s theme, “Future-Ready Workforce: Empowering Saudi Talent for Vision 2030,” captures the essence of what’s at stake: how Saudi organizations can leverage AI, behavioral science, and agile leadership to build the skills and mindsets powering national transformation.
“ATD Saudi Arabia plays a vital role in advancing leadership and human capability in alignment with Vision 2030,” said Mohammed Abdelhay, Managing Director of FranklinCovey Middle East. “We’re committed to helping leaders drive transformation and sustainable performance.”
Curtis Bateman to Headline with Change Leadership Keynote
The conference opens with Curtis Bateman, a globally recognized authority on change leadership and Senior VP at FranklinCovey. Known for his engaging storytelling and co-authorship of Change: How to Turn Uncertainty Into Opportunity, Bateman will deliver a keynote focused on the psychology of adaptation—a timely topic for leaders navigating today’s wave of technological and organizational disruption.
“Uncertainty can be a catalyst for innovation if leaders reframe it as opportunity,” Bateman said. “The goal is to build resilience, trust, and transformation-ready teams.”
AI, Gamification, and Global Credentials Take Center Stage
Beyond keynotes and panels, ATD Saudi Arabia 2025 is doubling down on experiential learning. The event will feature exclusive ATD Certificate Programs and a first-of-its-kind AI in Talent Development Workshop, created in collaboration with Arizona State University (USA). Participants will earn globally recognized credentials while mastering new methods in coaching, training, and organizational development.
The conference’s partner lineup reinforces its future-focused edge:
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Leoron Institute serves as exclusive learning partner
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Ivory Training joins as headline sponsor
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HNI signs on as gamification and training partner
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KGC takes the role of transformation and T&D partner
With hundreds of HR and L&D leaders expected, Riyadh is set to become the region’s hub for learning innovation, collaboration, and leadership development—advancing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of a skilled, adaptable, and empowered workforce.
A Platform for Change, Eight Years Strong
Now entering its eighth year, ATD Saudi Arabia has matured into a cornerstone of the Middle East’s L&D ecosystem, bridging global best practices with regional ambition. Past editions have featured some of the world’s most respected thought leaders, and this year’s agenda aims to continue that legacy—blending human capability, digital transformation, and cultural growth.
“We’re honored to work with QnA International to equip learning professionals to drive transformational change,” said Tony Bingham, ATD President and CEO. “ATD Saudi Arabia is about empowering Saudis to shape the future of work.”
Or as Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International, put it: “Leaders who embrace uncertainty, act with purpose, and inspire adaptability will define the future. ATD Saudi Arabia is where those leaders are made.”
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