Hiring surges in 2024 with growing emphasis on diversity

Hiring is expected to increase by at least 15 percent this year driven by optimistic market prospects, according to headhunters and human resources professionals in the United Arab Emirates..

They highlight that the hiring landscape in the country is witnessing transformative changes, driven by technological advances, socio-economic changes and a growing emphasis on fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.

It is also worth noting that there is a significant increase in the arrival of expatriates, probably surpassing previous figures, due to the decline of the economies of certain countries, according to experts.

Broader talent pool

Companies in the UAE are capitalizing on this trend, giving them the opportunity to tap into a broader talent pool for hiring.

AWS Ismail, CEO, Marc Ellis saying,

“In 2023, the labor market and hiring saw an increase of approximately 20 percent over the previous year and is likely to see a 20 to 25 percent increase again this year, based on signs that key sectors They will continue to prosper and the economy becomes even stronger. We are seeing a real boom in certain areas, particularly IT, banking and human resources. The technology sector is especially active, with a strong focus on areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity; “It is a great focus of innovation at the moment.”

He explained that this growth is attributed to the UAE’s focus on expanding and diversifying its sectors with a strong focus on technological advancements due to the government’s huge investment in futuristic projects.

Diversified economy

Human resources experts emphasized that the UAE has successfully diversified its economy away from relying exclusively on oil revenues. This change reflects positively on everyone.

Additionally, with AI and machine learning becoming an integral part of the hiring process, employers are leveraging data-driven insights to make informed decisions.

Nadeem Ahmed, Senior HR Officer, Hidayath Group He explained that, in addition to areas such as IT, AI and cybersecurity,

“There will also be strong hiring in 2024 of banking and finance professionals. Companies will hire financial and risk analysts, investment bankers, compliance officers, data scientists and financial technology experts.”

Fatima Tabrez, Athgadlang Regional Human Resources Directorexplained that while job seekers around the world see the UAE as a desirable international employment destination with a promising hiring landscape, employers also face some challenges.

“Based on the trend, this year we expect a hiring rate at least 10 to 15 percent higher than last year. The United Arab Emirates is an international destination for job seekers. But what we observe is that there is a discrepancy in salary expectations between nationalities. “Companies can overcome this by offering additional benefits such as insurance and family airfare.”

More flexibility

Meanwhile, according to a global survey of 70,000 employed people, conducted by Page Groupa leading FTSE 250 recruiter, 75 per cent of workers in the UAE expressed interest in exploring new job opportunities despite being currently employed.

Experts explained that this creates an urgent need for employers to establish strong employee retention strategies aimed at fostering a long-term workforce.

Beyond salary and benefits, he stressed that there has been a change in the way of working post-Covid, with greater acceptance of hybrid structures, remote work and the option to work from home.

“While previously only IT companies adopted this flexibility, a growing number of companies across various sectors are now adopting this approach. “It has become a sought-after aspect, and potential employees are actively seeking that flexibility in their work arrangements.”

saying Tabrez.

News Source: Khaleej Times