UAE Jobs: 7 Out Of 10 Employees Plan To Look For New Roles In 2026
72% of UAE employees intend to search for new roles in 2026 despite reporting workplace happiness.
A new LinkedIn survey paints a striking picture of the Emirates’ labour market. While three in four workers describe themselves as satisfied at work, roughly seven in ten say they will actively look for a new role next year. The same survey found that about 65 per cent of respondents feel it has become harder to secure a job compared with a year ago, and 63 per cent blame rising competition for the squeeze.
The demographic shifts and rapid economic change are key drivers. The UAE’s population has expanded markedly in recent years, adding pressure to the candidate pool and intensifying rivalry for vacancies across sectors. Population estimates show notable growth between 2024 and 2025, a trend that recruiters say is reshaping hiring dynamics.
From the employer side, three out of four hiring professionals in the UAE report greater difficulty finding suitably qualified candidates, underscoring a mismatch between available roles and candidate skills. “UAE professionals are among the most digitally forward in the region and globally, but they are also navigating a hiring environment that is evolving incredibly fast,” said Ali Matar, LinkedIn’s emerging markets leader for EMEA, reflecting the platform’s view on shifting talent expectations.
How Can Candidates Nail The Job Search Process?
Polish Your Professional Profile: Your LinkedIn profile and CV are the storefront. You must start with a clear headline and state what you do. Write your summary showing impact and not duties. Recruiters will see the value you bring in seconds. Place the contact details and portfolio links so they are visible.
Target Roles: At the time of applying, list down 3-5 types of roles you want to apply for and focus on searching for them. For each of the targeted ones, customize your CV and cover letter accordingly. Although this is time consuming but raises the chances of interview calls compared with bulk-applying.
Network With Purpose: Networking never means random messaging. You connect with the person to learn about their roles. Reconnect with your past colleagues and alumni, ask them for sincere advice, and request a referral.
Use Job Search Tools: There is no issue with using AI to draft cover letters and refine CV wording. You can even use job alerts and company pages to spot the openings early.
Prepare for Interviews Like A Presenter: Research and read through the recent news and products of the company you are applying to. Prepare some pointers explaining how you can solve problems and adapt them to the role’s priorities. Take interviews as a demonstration of the way you think and deliver.
Follow Up: Wait for some days and then send a brief and personalized message to the company you applied to. Ask them for the updates on the hiring process. This will give you an idea if you have a chance of securing a position, or if you must look for some other positions.
