Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Stepping into 2025, the UAE is poised for substantial shifts and developments.
A recent Ipsos survey reveals the UAE's collective outlook for 2025, reflecting the views of a diverse group of respondents and offering insights across key areas such as society, health, the economy, the workplace, tourism, the environment, as well as technology.
A key societal prediction for the UAE in 2025 is the continued influx of expatriates, with 79% of respondents believing the expat population will grow, driven by the UAE's appeal as an economic hub.
At the same time, there is optimism about gender equality, as 75% anticipate more women in leadership roles.
Health predictions for 2025 are largely positive, with 88% of respondents expecting better physical health and 87% anticipating improvements in mental wellbeing.
In addition, 64% are hopeful for a breakthrough in cancer treatment.
The UAE's economic outlook for 2025 is highly optimistic, with 93% of respondents expecting a stronger economy than in 2024.
This positive sentiment is reflected globally, as 70% of respondents are confident in their own financial improvement.
Investment optimism remains strong, with 77% believing the economic environment will improve for investments in 2025.
In addition, 61% plan to make major purchases, including homes and cars, while 74% predict a rise in housing demand compared to 2024.
The UAE workplace is set for further transformation, with a shift towards greater flexibility and digitalisation.
A majority, 74%, of respondents believe businesses will offer more flexibility to employees in 2025.
65% expect the four-day working week to become the norm.
This reflects global trends toward work-life balance and remote work options.
Predictions for 2025 point to ongoing growth in the travel sector.
A significant 82% of respondents believe that more tourists will visit the UAE in 2025 compared to the previous year.
This aligns with the UAE's efforts to establish itself as a global travel hub, with new attractions, events, and infrastructure enhancing its appeal to international visitors.
Looking at the environment, 73% of respondents expect the UAE government to introduce stricter carbon reduction measures, and 67% believe electric vehicles will be the primary transportation option for most by 2025.
In terms of technology, the UAE is expected to continue its rapid technological evolution, with predictions pointing towards a greater reliance on digital platforms.
A majority, 73%, of respondents believe people will spend more time socialising online than face-to-face, and 66% anticipate that many will live their lives in virtual worlds.
Digital payments are expected to become ubiquitous, with 79% believing that cash transactions will be largely replaced by digital methods.
As for technological breakthroughs, 59% of respondents are optimistic that a technology will be introduced to help reduce the impacts of climate change.
Another futuristic expectation involves flying cars, with 66% of respondents predicting their introduction in the UAE by 2025.
