The UAE’s labour market ranking reached new heights this year, securing first place in 10 major international indicators. This achievement came from the 2025 World Competitiveness Yearbook released by the IMD World Competitiveness Center.
The country also earned second place in four indicators and placed in the global top ten across several others. These include third in three areas, fourth in two, and fifth, sixth, and eighth in one category each. The overall performance underscores the UAE’s growing influence in international economic assessments.
This global success confirms the UAE’s reputation as a preferred destination for professionals, investors, and skilled migrants. It also highlights the country’s long-term strategy to align its labour market with innovation, stability, and competitiveness.
Despite fierce global competition, the UAE maintained its top rankings in core categories such as workforce growth, labour market competitiveness, and employment rates. Other top-ranking factors include low labour disputes, short termination processes, and broad availability of international experience.
The UAE also scored first in indicators such as working hours, employment growth, availability of senior specialised managers, and low bureaucracy. These strengths reflect both market openness and streamlined administration.
In second place, the UAE stood out for the proportion of its foreign labour force and the labour participation rate. It also earned high marks in skilled foreign labour availability and financial skills. This global recognition reinforces its position as a magnet for talent.
Third-place rankings included indicators like availability of engineers and overall skilled labour. In fourth place, the country was recognised for labour regulation and low long-term unemployment rates.
In addition, the UAE ranked fifth for labour unit costs and sixth for youth unemployment. It also achieved eighth place for low brain drain, further cementing its global reputation as a centre for talent retention.
This strong labour market ranking stems from bold legislative reform, top-tier infrastructure, and business-friendly strategies. Moreover, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation continues to enhance private sector cooperation.
As global demand for talent grows, the UAE’s performance provides a powerful example of policy efficiency. Looking ahead, the country plans to build on this momentum and deepen its position as a world leader in labour competitiveness.
