A sharp acceleration in technology adoption is colliding with workforce supply in the UAE, where employers are projected to require more than a million additional workers by the end of the decade to sustain growth and modernisation. The anticipated expansion—about 1.03 million roles by 2030—represents a 12.1 per cent rise in the labour force, a pace that surpasses forecasts for the US and India.
Demand is spreading across both traditional and knowledge-based sectors. Manufacturing is expected to add roughly 133,000 jobs, education about 78,000, and retail close to 60,000, while finance and healthcare are each tracking more than 40,000 openings. In proportional terms, energy and utilities are set to grow the fastest at 33 per cent, followed by education at 31 per cent and manufacturing at 18 per cent.
The projections come from ServiceNow’s Workforce Skills Forecast 2025, developed with Pearson, which examined 5,600 roles across ten countries by analysing millions of job advertisements and a catalogue of emerging technologies. The study suggests that employers who delay adapting to new skill requirements risk losing competitiveness as technology-focused positions expand at the quickest rate.
Learning data points to how rapidly the market is shifting. Coursera’s 2025 report shows enrolment in generative AI courses in the UAE surged 344 per cent, far exceeding global and regional averages and placing the country at the top of the Arab world for AI-related learning.
Recruitment practices are evolving just as quickly. Between 60 and 65 per cent of hiring already relies on digital tools, according to Nisha Nair of Innovations Group, with AI increasingly used to screen candidates and conduct early interviews. Automation has reduced some entry-level roles, particularly in call centres, while boosting demand—and pay premiums—for professionals with credentials in AI, cybersecurity, sustainability, engineering and fintech.
Despite concerns about automation, industry leaders argue technology is expanding opportunities overall. Agentic AI could offset the equivalent of 17,000 finance roles, or about 6.6 per cent of sector headcount, yet the same industry is expected to grow by 26 per cent through broader economic expansion and technology-driven efficiency. “What we are seeing in the UAE, as well as in nearly every other country surveyed, is that AI augmentation will be central to capturing the next wave of economic growth,” said William O’Neill, area vice president and general manager for GCC at ServiceNow. “The future of work depends on collaboration between people and AI, and it’s a future that’s hiring now. The organisations that win the race for top talent will be those that redesign roles and invest in upskilling to meet the demands of this new era.”
O’Neill added that addressing labour shortages requires a structured approach. “To get ahead of labour shortfalls and win the future of work, organisations must build an inclusive future for workers,” he said. “The roadmap is clear: deploy AI thoughtfully, establish strong governance frameworks to manage risks, and invest ambitiously in upskilling programmes that prepare employees for an AI-augmented world. This three-pronged approach will help create workforces that are more resilient, innovative, and fulfilled.”
Looking ahead, recruiters expect demand in 2026 to be led by construction, technology and energy, supported by infrastructure development, digital transformation programmes and clean energy investments. “The Construction, Technology, and Energy sectors are expected to lead hiring demand in 2026,” said Nikhil Nanda, Director at Innovations Group. “Major infrastructure and sustainability projects, continued investment in renewable energy, and the rapid pace of digital transformation are driving the need for skilled professionals across these industries.”
Employers are increasingly favouring hybrid roles that combine technical depth with leadership capability, such as data centre managers, project managers and digitally fluent civil engineers. At the same time, budgets are shifting away from routine administrative and basic content functions toward positions focused on AI integration, data analysis, community building and digital thought leadership.
For candidates, recruiters say standing out still depends on fundamentals rather than automation. “Networking is still one of the most powerful tools,” said Wilson, cautioning against overuse of AI in applications. “Employers can spot generic, ChatGPT style messages and CVs instantly. Don’t ask for flexibility or remote work too early in the process.” She also stressed the value of discipline: “To truly stand out, especially for Gen Z, adopting a traditional mindset of hard work, consistency and humility will actually make you more memorable.” Wilson added, “Never lie about your salary or experience. Honesty and integrity will always outlast shortcuts.”
