Transforming HR at Scale: Dubai Duty Free’s Journey to Oracle Fusion HCM with Region’s Largest Payroll Rollout

Problem Statement

DDF’s HR processes were spread across disparate systems including Oracle EBS HR, Sniper Hire, Excel, and Power BI, resulting in inefficiencies, data silos, and limited visibility across functions. Manual HR tasks burdened HR teams, and payroll processing lacked automation and compliance flexibility, especially for the large Middle East workforce. Recruiting, onboarding, learning, and performance tracking were inconsistent, while strategic talent insights were constrained by outdated reporting mechanisms.

On the financial and procurement front, transaction volumes were significant. Managing them across disjointed systems led to operational delays and data reconciliation challenges. 

Solutions Provided

4i apps led a comprehensive Oracle Fusion HCM Cloud implementation, deploying a unified HCM backbone that replaced legacy systems. The project was executed within a 4-month timeline, covering key modules:

• Core HR, Absence, Payroll (ME), Performance, Goals, Learning, Talent, Recruiting

To support real-time operations, 4i enabled seamless integration with biometric and learning systems via OIC, and handled massive transaction loads from retail and finance systems.

HCM Transformation Achievements

• Unified 5,990 employees under a single cloud-based HCM platform
• Enabled mobile-enabled self-service and personalized learning
• Automated payroll processing and improved ME compliance
• Delivered embedded analytics and dashboards for strategic HR planning

Key Benefits Of Client

• Manual Effort Eliminated: Legacy tools like Excel and Sniper Hire were retired
• Streamlined Payroll: ME Payroll handled large volumes with automation and compliance
• Employee Empowerment: Enabled mobile access, Employee Self-Service / Manager Self-Service, and adaptive learning
• Enhanced Talent Strategy: Unified platform for performance, goals, and recruitment
• Data-Driven HR Decisions: Real-time insights through dashboards and analytics

Conclusion

Dubai Duty Free’s successful transition to Oracle Fusion HCM Cloud, led by 4i Apps, represents a landmark modernization of HR operations in the region. With the region’s largest Fusion Payroll, DDF now operates with increased agility, compliance, and employee satisfaction. The integration of critical business functions and transaction-heavy environments into a unified Oracle ecosystem equips DDF for continued innovation, scalability, and workforce excellence.