This month, Planet Mainframe celebrates influential mainframers nominated by the community. Today, we recognize a veteran systems programmer whose hands-on expertise spans nearly four decades.
Abdul Hafiz
Principal Engineer – Mainframe, Emirates Airline
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
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View the entire 2025 Influential Mainframers group here.
Abdul Hafiz began his mainframe career in 1985 as a senior operator. From his early work on IBM 4331 and 3090 systems to his current role supporting the z15 platform, Abdul has witnessed—and helped shape—the evolution of enterprise computing.
Currently serving as Principal Engineer – Mainframe at Emirates Airline, Abdul manages and supports a wide range of IBM Z technologies across the company’s core infrastructure. His experience includes z/OS, z/VM, VM/ESA, MVS/XA, OS/390, and more, along with key subsystems like CICS, JES2, MQ, RACF, TCP/IP, VTAM, and NetView. Over the years, he has installed and configured these technologies independently—often without vendor assistance—demonstrating a deep, practical understanding of the platform.
Abdul describes mainframe technology as powerful yet rewarding: “Mainframe is not very difficult to work on, but once you are in it, you love to stay—mainly because of the response time, which is fantastic.”
Abdul has also been heavily involved in mainframe networking, from early 3705 and 3725 controllers to modern TCP/IP configurations. He wrote numerous procedures and developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that became reference materials within Emirates Airline and at his previous organizations, including the Ministry of the Interior of Kuwait.
In addition to system-level work, Abdul has played a vital role in training new operators, transferring knowledge, and ensuring operational continuity across generations of mainframers. His support spans 24×7 environments and includes complex troubleshooting for infrastructure across RMF, DFSMS, DFHSM, RACF, and more.
With 40 years in the field, Abdul Hafiz continues contributing stability, experience, and mentorship to a platform that thrives on deep expertise. His dedication helps ensure the continued reliability of mission-critical systems in one of the world’s largest airlines.
Influential Mainframer
Mainframe technology continues to evolve because of the dedicated professionals, educators, mentors, and innovators who drive it forward. We’re shining a spotlight on the individuals who are making waves—whether they’re advancing technology, mentoring new talent, sharing knowledge, championing modernization, or quietly keeping mission-critical systems running every day. These are the people shaping the future of mainframe. They come from all backgrounds and experience levels, but they all have one thing in common: they’re making a difference.
Check back daily as we reveal a new honoree. Read their stories, celebrate their impact, and be inspired.
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