The UAE, especially Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah has long been a beacon of opportunity for job seekers worldwide. People from many countries have been moving to the UAE for professional growth, better living standards, and diverse career opportunities.
But, the last few years (2022, 2023, and 2024) have seen a significant shift in the employment landscape, leading to increased difficulty for many in securing jobs in UAE. Here are factors that contribute to this trend.
High Competition
The flow of highly qualified job seekers from all over the world rises annually, so the UAE's job market has become more competitive. Employers' standards also evolved; they got more selective, often preferring candidates with specific years of experience, skills, and qualifications, making it difficult for freshers and those lacking the necessary skill set to find jobs in UAE.
Focus on Emiratization
The government of the United Arab Emirates' goal of hiring its citizens in both the public and commercial sectors is known as "Emiratization". It increases each semester by adding a 1% Emirati quota to be achieved by the companies in the United Arab Emirates. This effort is important to the country's long-term economic stability but also limits opportunities for expats. Many organizations are required to prioritize recruiting Emirati individuals, creating an effect that the job market in UAE is less accessible for immigrants.
Lack of Experience Certificates
If you don't have proper experience certificates from your previous employers, that will affect your career journey. In UAE, most reputable companies usually ask for verified work experience certificates. Without these certificates, It'll be hard to prove your professional background, and this is one of the major reasons why many job seekers are unable to secure their desired jobs in UAE.
However, job seekers can get your UAE Job Experience Certificate instantly on MOHRE app (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation App), but most are not aware of this. The job experience certificate from the MOHRE App is a fast and official approach to verify your work experience and increase your chances of getting the job.
Skills Gap
Even though many job seekers are qualified, many of them have a skill gap with what employers are looking for. In this evolving job market in UAE, it is important to be updated with the latest industry trends to stay competitive.
Those who work in industries like technology, healthcare, marketing, and engineering always require constant updation in technical skills and expertise, which not all job applicants possess. This results in frustration for both the employers and the job applicants.
Wrong Timing for Job Search
Job seekers who move to the UAE at the wrong time, i.e., less hiring time, may face challenges in getting even interview calls, which prolongs the job hunt. In UAE, there are specific seasons and periods when hiring will be more active, such as after the Ramadan and Eid holidays. So, in the UAE, it is very important to research the best time to look for jobs that will lead you to a successful and effective job search.
Changing Employer Expectations
Employers are increasingly seeking applicants with both technical and soft qualities. The applicants may have outstanding technical capabilities, but if they cannot perform well in an interview with these essential skills, it will be tough for them to obtain their ideal job. Improve your interview skills which will have a big influence on your performance and help you get your desired job.
Conclusion
UAE is always and will always be an attractive destination for job seekers all around the globe. This also makes the job market so much more competitive and the challenge of getting a job here cannot be ignored. Enhancing your skills, being a competent candidate, and adapting to this trendy job market is the strategy for you.
