Recent studies throughout the MENA region reflect the UAE’s solidified position as the hub of economic stability and professional growth and as the country continues to attract an influx of professionals from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA); recent data from Bayt.com highlights why it is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for employment.
Key factors drawing talent to UAE
The UAE’s economic growth, robust job market, and innovative business landscape are key factors drawing talent to its shores, establishing the nation as an employment hub. The findings from the Employee Loyalty in the MENA Survey by Bayt.com reveal that 55% of employees have been with their current company for four years or more, demonstrating a high level of job market stability.
Employee engagement and satisfaction
A notable 68% of employees also reported feeling proud of their organization’s products and services, while 54% would actively recommend their workplace to others. These findings highlight the high level of employee engagement and satisfaction, where at least three in five employees feel loyal to their current employers. Furthermore, 38% stated they would stay in their current organization for an extended period, even if other companies offered higher salaries. This highlights the strength of employee retention companies in the UAE enjoy in the country.
Self-employment and entrepreneurial ventures on the rise?
Self-employment and entrepreneurial ventures are on the rise in the region, and the UAE has become a preferred base for many aspiring entrepreneurs. 39% of respondents expressed a desire to be self-employed, meaning the UAE ranks highly as a choice location due to its supportive regulatory framework and access to global markets.
The survey also found that 46% of currently employed respondents are contemplating launching their own business, driven by factors such as personal fulfillment (45%) and freedom to balance work and life (43%). While 55% in the MENA region cited financial constraints as a barrier to establishing their own ventures, nearly half of the respondents believe the government’s recent steps to ease business setup regulations have positively impacted the entrepreneurial landscape.
What’s the future of work?
The UAE is further solidifying its attractiveness by focusing on future skills development, a priority for professionals across the MENA region. The Future of Work in MENA study reports that more than 50% of respondents feel optimistic about their career prospects and believe they will thrive in the UAE’s evolving job market. Key skills identified as essential for future success include time management (97%), communication (96%), and technical expertise in fields such as technology and engineering (both at 95%). Moreover, the demand for roles like software engineering (79%), healthcare (74%), and specialized healthcare practitioners (73%) is anticipated to increase, aligning well with the UAE’s commitment to developing a knowledge-driven economy. Approximately 65% of recruiters also believe that online recruitment methods will continue to advance, making the process of attracting and hiring talent smoother, which aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to foster a business-friendly environment.
Jobs for fresh graduates
For fresh graduates, the UAE represents an ideal destination to launch their careers. 82% of graduates are satisfied with the quality of education they received, with 28% stating that it prepared them to enter their industry of choice. Although nearly half of the graduates believe that securing a job will be challenging due to lack of experience (40%) and limited job market knowledge (43%), the UAE’s appeal as an employment destination remains strong. Notably, 75% of fresh graduates indicated they are willing to relocate within the GCC for work, with 60% specifically interested in opportunities in the UAE. Additionally, a strong 60% of respondents are optimistic about the career opportunities available in the UAE compared to their parents’ generation, pointing to the country’s investment in education and workforce development.
Dina Tawfik, Vice President of Growth at Bayt.com, said, “The UAE’s focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development has firmly established it as a premier destination for career growth. At Bayt.com, we are proud to support this vision by connecting professionals with exceptional opportunities through our advanced tools and extensive talent network. By empowering individuals and businesses alike, we aim to drive success in a rapidly evolving job market.”
