Exciting Prospects for Job Seekers in the UAE

Great news for those on the lookout for employment opportunities, as hiring in the UAE is projected to gain momentum starting in early 2025. The Robert Half 2025 UAE Salary Guide indicates that the current job market dynamics are favoring hiring managers; however, this scenario is expected to shift in the coming months. The report suggests that UAE business leaders have been postponing hiring decisions throughout 2024, primarily to assess the outcomes of the US elections and to gain clarity regarding interest rates. This cautious approach means that many employers are hesitant to commit to new hires until they feel more assured about the economic landscape. Consequently, this delay is likely to lead to a bustling start in 2025, as businesses will be compelled to accelerate hiring to meet the demand for growth.

Current Job Market Dynamics

At present, there is a noticeable imbalance in the job market, with a surplus of job seekers compared to available positions. This trend has empowered companies to be selective in their hiring processes, often resulting in lower salary offers and trimmed benefits packages. As a result, employees find themselves with reduced bargaining power when it comes to negotiating salary increases or enhanced benefits. A staggering 75 percent of UAE workers have reported that securing a pay rise has become increasingly challenging compared to just a year ago.

Despite these obstacles, many employees are eager to explore new job opportunities. An impressive 65 percent of workers are planning to seek new roles in 2025. However, for many, the choice to remain in their current positions is often driven by necessity rather than desire, with 65 percent citing a lack of better prospects or attractive packages elsewhere as the primary reason for staying put. As the economy continues to evolve and global conditions shift, the labor market in the UAE is poised for a significant transformation—one that will compel employers to strike a balance between company growth and employee satisfaction, all while searching for the most qualified talent.

What Are UAE Companies Seeking?

The answer is straightforward: local experience. As UAE businesses expand, they are on the lookout for candidates with relevant backgrounds. According to the report, 63 percent of business leaders anticipate an increase in their headcount over the next year, with half of them citing growth as the primary motivation for hiring more personnel. While it may become easier for businesses to find new talent within the UAE, the talent pool often lacks depth, particularly when it comes to candidates possessing the specialized skills and local experience that employers require. Approximately one in five employers acknowledge that finding candidates with prior local work experience remains a significant challenge. However, due to budget constraints, many companies may end up settling for candidates who do not completely meet their specific needs.

Looking Ahead

The silver lining is that we can expect an influx of job opportunities in 2025. Employers are coming to realize the importance of offering competitive packages to attract and retain talented professionals, especially those with UAE-based work experience. Overall, the future looks promising for job seekers in the region. You’ve got this! Best of luck in your job search.

In Other News…

• The RTA has just made it 75% cheaper to get a taxi to Abu Dhabi
  Here’s how
• Sheikh Zayed Road to close on two days this month
  Both days fall on the weekend
• Dubai is hosting a month of celebrations for UAE National Day
  Including lots of free events