UAE Job Market Crisis: Why Finding Work is Tougher Than Ever for Expats and Locals!
- wilmarelloso13
- Jun 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Despite having a lot of job openings in the UAE, expats and even locals are having a hard time looking for a job in the UAE.
There are 105 search results on Google related to the job market using the keyword "Saturated" on Reddit. The UAE is emerging as a key destination for expatriates, with many coming from South Asia/South East Asia, and a growing number from conflict-affected nations. In recent times, there has been a notable rise in expatriates from Russia and Ukraine seeking shelter from war, either in search of employment opportunities or considering the country as their second home.
In Dubai, the focal point of the UAE, numerous job opportunities can be found all around. However, the real question remains: have we been successful in securing a good job? Typically, there are always vacancies available for pink-collar jobs, which mainly involve individuals working in hospitality, F&B, and customer service. Those employed in these sectors often hail from South and Southeast Asia, as well as the Middle East, depending on the company's tier they are associated with.
Regrettably, white-collar jobs have been scarce and have consistently been a competitive field for young professionals. I personally struggled to secure a white-collar job in the UAE.
Despite the country being a melting pot of diverse cultures. Unfortunately, racism is still widespread, as I have personally encountered instances where businesses promote inequality based on one's race.
photo by Khaleej Times
Based on my experience as a job seeker, here is what I have learned about why job seekers struggle to secure employment. This will cover all the important aspects and reasons behind their challenges.
Whether you are seeking a white-collar, blue-collar, or pink-collar job, it is important to customize your CV/resume to match the specific position you are applying for within the company.
When applying for Pink-collar jobs, having professional skills and expertise is not a strict requirement. Companies offering Pink-collar positions are often willing to give individuals the opportunity to acquire new skills, whether it be as a coffee barista, waiter, secretary, or helper. The essential skills for these roles typically revolve around being service-oriented, caregiving, administrative and support roles, lower wage levels, part-time and flexible hours, emotional labor, and interpersonal skills. It is somewhat biased that women in the UAE have an advantage in job hunting for these positions, as many companies prefer female candidates, despite the country's gender distribution of 70% men and 30% women. However, it is not to say that men are completely excluded from pink-collar jobs. Ultimately, hiring decisions often lean towards women for these roles, though there are exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
When applying for white-collar positions, particularly in larger organizations, having a professional license and certifications is often essential. Additionally, holding a Master's degree in the relevant field and being fluent in three languages can significantly increase your chances of securing a well-paying job in the UAE. By combining these qualifications with relevant experience, you may secure a salary starting from 10,000 AED. However, it is important to acknowledge that racial considerations may still play a role in the hiring process, as some companies do not adhere to principles of workplace equality.
Finally, Connection is crucial. I have observed that having connections greatly influences one's ability to secure a job in the UAE. As an individual without any significant connections in management and having lived here for a year, I anticipate that finding a job will be a lengthy process for me. The issue with connections is that certain companies engage in political behaviors, leading to biased decisions based on personal factors.
Throughout my career, I have accumulated 8 years of work experience, predominantly in my home country, which has shaped my unique perspective on work environments. From my experience, I believe that working and living in the UAE will push you to become more resilient and adept at navigating interactions with various individuals.
The hiring process here is much lengthier compared to my home country. It can take weeks to be considered for a single job, as the HR department handles a large volume of applicants daily. The utilization of an ATS system and advanced AI for screening applications requires significant effort to shortlist candidates.
As I conclude my Blog, I trust that you have found value in my insights. To those currently seeking employment and facing joblessness, I wish you success in finding a suitable job that aligns with your needs, and remember to prioritize your mental and physical well-being. Remember to show kindness, but also be vigilant during your time in the UAE. While it is known as a safe haven, there may still be individuals who try to exploit your goodwill. Feel free to follow me on my socials:
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