The UAE job market competition is heating up as fewer professionals are landing their desired salaries. A new study shows that global talent influx has made salary negotiations harder for employees across the country.
According to Michael Page’s 2026 Salary Guide, only 15 percent of UAE employees succeeded in negotiating a raise this year. Almost half of them tried to push for better pay, but most efforts fell short. In 2024, success rates were much higher at 24 percent. This clear decline highlights growing challenges for jobseekers.
The report noted that many employees now approach salary discussions with caution. The UAE job market competition is pushing workers to value stability more than risk. At the same time, employers are becoming more selective, offering fair but strategic compensation packages. For companies, understanding market expectations helps them attract and retain talent. For employees, it creates a clear benchmark for career planning.
Despite these challenges, the UAE’s economy continues to thrive. The International Monetary Fund recently projected the nation’s GDP to grow by 4.8 percent this year. Strong non-oil growth and expanding OPEC production are fueling this momentum. The UAE Central Bank expects a slightly higher rate of 4.9 percent, showing confidence in steady economic performance.
Meanwhile, the demand for AI-related roles is soaring. Companies are moving beyond experimentation and adopting artificial intelligence at full scale. This shift has created new opportunities for AI engineers, product managers, and data specialists. However, advanced AI talent remains scarce in the region. Employers are therefore investing heavily in training and upskilling to meet their digital goals.
Michael Page’s report also revealed a change in mindset among professionals. While 52 percent are satisfied with their current salaries, nearly two-thirds plan to change jobs in 2026. Salary remains a top motivation, but work-life balance and growth opportunities are gaining importance.
The S&P Global UAE Purchasing Managers’ Index showed that private sector hiring is picking up pace. Dubai’s non-oil industries are expanding, boosting optimism about future activity. The UAE job market competition continues to shape how both companies and workers adapt to rapid economic changes.
