Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Regional developments have not deterred a vast majority of UAE professionals who plan to stay on and build their careers for at least a year.
An overwhelming 91% have plans to stay for the next 6-12 months, including 66% who “definitely intend” to live and work here, according to a report by LinkedIn, which says the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for talent and innovation.
It was earlier reported that the UAE recorded one of the strongest post-pandemic hiring recoveries among major global markets in 2025. Figures from June this year showed international talent was again looking for return to the country despite the crisis at the start of the year due to the US-Iran war.
However, the LinkedIn report said professionals are not actively tapping into their professional networks in search of new opportunities in the country.
Most UAE workers (96%) also say their professional network matters as they navigate their careers in the country that’s rapidly changing due to AI.
Career opportunity in the UAE is still led by skills, but networks help turn those skills into visibility, relationships and momentum, the report said.
“The UAE continues to be a place where people come to build ambitious, long-term careers. But in a fast-moving labour market, skills alone are not always enough. Visibility and relationships also matter, especially for people who are new to the country, early in their careers, or looking to move into a new sector,” said Najat Abdelhadi, LinkedIn MENA Career Expert.
