Digital Transformation and Human Resource Management Practices in UAE Public Universities: A Resource-Based and Dynamic Capabilities Perspective

This study examines the relationship between digital transformation and human resource management (HRM) practices in public universities in the United Arab Emirates via a synthesis of Resource-Based View and Dynamic Capabilities Theory. Despite the growing interest in digital transformation, limited research has examined its implications within public universities in the United Arab Emirates. Adopting a conceptual approach, this paper provides a comprehensive framework that connects the important elements of digital transformation, comprising technological infrastructure, digital transformation culture, and human resource capabilities, to the core HRM practices, namely recruitment, training, and performance appraisal. This study contributes to the existing literature by proposing a dual conceptualization of digital transformation as both a strategic resource and an adaptive capability that enhances HRM effectiveness. Moreover, the current study proposes a structured questionnaire approach for future empirical validation using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). It is expected that future empirical findings will demonstrate that it is not only the size of technology investment, but also the organization’s ability to develop dynamic capabilities like organizational learning and strategic flexibility that mediate the relationship between digital transformation and HRM practices. Despite the growing interest in digital transformation, limited research has examined its implications within public universities in the United Arab Emirates. In particular, little is known about the underlying mechanisms through which digital transformation influences HRM practices, especially the mediating role of dynamic capabilities. Furthermore, the integration of the Resource-Based View and Dynamic Capabilities Theory in explaining this relationship remains underexplored in higher education contexts. Accordingly, this study aims to develop a conceptual framework that explains the relationship between digital transformation and HRM practices in UAE public universities. The study draws theoretical implications through the integration of RBV and the dynamic capabilities perspective into the ecosystem domain of digital HRM, as well as for university leaders and policymakers who would design systematic processes to align digital transformation initiatives in a way that serves human resource strategies. It highlights the need to create a digital culture, develop workforce digital competencies, and take an integrated approach to build sustainable institutional performance.