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 2023
1. Information and communication
2. Professional, Scientific, and technical activities
3. Administrative and service activities
4. Real estate activities
5. Agriculture and fishing
Top Sectors - By Concentration of Green Jobs in 2023
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
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