UAE Employers Anticipate Job Growth in 2025

The UAE is anticipating a rise in hiring for 2025, with 63% of business leaders planning to expand their workforce due to business growth and clarity from recent elections in the US and India. Despite a current slowdown in job creation, as indicated by the S&P Global PMI reading, business sentiment improved in October, with many firms forecasting continued growth into the next year. However, challenges remain, including a lack of candidates with relevant local experience and a significant proportion of employees (65%) planning to seek new job opportunities due to rising living costs. The pace of demand growth for the non-oil private sector reached its lowest in 20 months, though output expanded, attributed to a healthy pipeline of sales. Companies must navigate these dynamics carefully to retain talent while meeting recruitment needs. As competition for skilled labor increases, businesses may need to offer higher salaries and improved conditions to attract and keep employees.