The UAE Labor Market: Key Facts and Figures

A Glimpse of the UAE Labor Market

UAE Labour Market Rankings in the following global competitiveness indices:

UAE is ranked 1st in the following categories  

• Capacity to attract talented people Global Prosperity Index 2023 - Legatum Institute
• First in the Arab World on the Global Labour Resilience Index 2024 - Whiteshield
• UAE is the most favored country in the world for international professionals seeking employment visas - Global HR platform Deel, 2023

UAE is ranked 2nd in the following categories: 

• Employment (%)World Competitiveness Yearbook 2023 - IMD
• Working hours - World Competitiveness Yearbook 2023 - IMD
• Labor force (%)World Competitiveness Yearbook 2023 - IMD

Top Sectors - By Growth in Skilled Workers in 2024

1. Information and communication 

2. Professional, Scientific, and technical activities 

3. Administrative and service activities

4. Real estate activities 

5. Agriculture and fishing 

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Top Sectors - By Concentration of Green Jobs in 2024 

1. Manufacturing

2. Construction 

3. Professional, Scientific, and technical activities 

4. Information and communication 

5. Sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities 

Source: UAE Ministry of Human Rights and Emiratisation 

Top Industries Hiring in UAE in 2024 

The Banking & Financial Services

36% of organizations added more than 10% to their workforce last year.  

The Construction & Property sector 

73% of employers anticipate that headcount in their organization will increase in 2024, most commonly by 10% or more. 

Technological Sector 

The United Arab Emirates leads in technological innovation, and start-ups and local players drive regional hiring, shaping a dynamic digital landscape.

Summary 

• 92% of all organizations plan to recruit permanent employees, temporary employees, contractors, or freelancers. 
• 41% of employers say more candidates are applying for jobs than in the past. 
• 41% highlight a shortage of skilled professionals
• 23% emphasize that competition from other employers is fierce. 

While employment opportunities and the number of candidates are increasing, employers' biggest challenge is attracting and retaining the best talent.  

Source: Hays Salary Guide 2024