A recent study from LinkedIn has highlighted a significant trend in the job market of the UAE and Saudi Arabia for 2024. The survey indicates that a substantial 62 percent of professionals in the region are actively seeking new employment opportunities or planning to do so shortly. The pursuit of better salaries and an enhanced work-life balance are cited as the primary motivations behind this shift.
Ali Matar, the EMEA growth markets leader and head of LinkedIn for Mena, remarked on the trend, stating, “In 2024, UAE and Saudi professionals are taking control of their career paths, making the job market increasingly competitive. Distinguishing oneself is becoming more crucial than ever.”
A notable 74 percent of respondents emphasized the importance of flexible work arrangements, such as hybrid models, aligning with the global shift towards more adaptable working conditions.
The survey, conducted by Censuswide, spanned a broad demographic, encompassing 16,288 professionals from across the globe, including the Gulf countries, various European nations, and other significant markets like India, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, Brazil, and the US.
An intriguing aspect of the findings is the impact of housing costs on career decisions, with 73 percent of professionals considering relocation due to the escalating rental prices, highlighting the interplay between affordable housing and talent retention in the region.
The study also sheds light on a paradigm shift in the employment sector, with an increasing emphasis on skills over academic degrees. A majority of professionals are actively engaged in upskilling, with 76 percent undertaking additional projects and online courses to enhance their career prospects. This trend is underpinned by a strong desire among 84 percent of UAE professionals to future-proof their careers through continuous learning and skill development.
In contrast to the allure of international markets, an overwhelming 82 percent of professionals in the UAE and Saudi Arabia express a preference for working within the region, attributing this choice to the high standard of living, attractive lifestyle, and promising professional growth opportunities available in the Gulf.