73% expats drawn to UAE’s quality of job opportunities

Dubai and Abu Dhabi ranked third and fourth as the most preferred global work locations for expatriates, according to a global talent mobility study by BCG that surveyed over 150,000 workers from 188 countries, including around 2,500 workers in the the Middle East and North Africa region.

The report, titled 'Dream Destinations and Mobility Trends: Decoding Global Talent 2024,' highlights factors that make the UAE a preferred work destination. These include the quality of job opportunities, quality of living, personal growth, cultural experiences, better healthcare, and political stability. The study reveals key findings as under:

• 73 per cent of workers surveyed prefer the UAE for its job opportunities quality, 62 per cent for better pay and compensation, and 61 per cent for quality of life.
• Additionally, 91 per cent of expats are interested in moving to the UAE for engineering and technical roles, 82 per cent for healthcare roles, 73 per cent for financial services roles, and 63 per cent for marketing and sales roles.
• 67 per cent of workers cited financial motivations as the primary reason for relocating to UAE. Meanwhile, 53 per cent prefer the region for its career growth opportunities, and 56 per cent for a better quality of life. 
• 45 per cent noted that the UAE offers concrete job opportunities, 50 per cent say the region has better personal growth and cultural experiences, 48 per cent prefer it for interesting and challenging work opportunities, 44 per cent value better education or training opportunities, 45 per cent appreciate the region's improved social and healthcare systems, 21 per cent find it a politically stable region, 32 per cent feel socially inclusive and accepted, 15 per cent admire its environmental and climate change initiatives, and 13 per cent move for reuniting with family and friends.

• 49 per cent of UAE workers prefer long-term international assignments for work, reflecting the regional workforce's growing international outlook. Their expectations for employment support also align closely with global trends, which is at 29 per cent. 
• 72 per cent of them prioritise housing, and 86 per cent value visa assistance.
• Other key expectations for UAE workers include 63 per cent for relocation support, 48 per cent for language support and training, and 41 per cent for legal and financial advice.

These factors together make the UAE a top destination for professionals, aligning with key motivations for working abroad such as safety, stability, and inclusivity.  

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Commenting on the survey results, Maya El Hachem, Managing Director and Partner, UAE BCG Office Lead said, “The UAE continues to carve a reputation as a fertile ground for career growth, drawing talents, especially from the Middle East and beyond. The report presents a UAE that is not just keeping pace but setting the pace in the global talent marketplace. The strategic positioning of the Emirates, accentuated by its safety and progressive outlook, makes it a burgeoning hotspot for the global workforce. In addition, the confluence of exceptional job quality, competitive incomes, and an enriching lifestyle makes the UAE a beacon for ambitious professionals. The UAE's advancement in global ranks further substantiates its commitment to cultivating an environment thriving on diversity and opportunity."

Dr Leila Hoteit, Managing Director and Senior Partner at BCG, Global lead for Education, Employment and Welfare added, "Global talent mobility is at a critical juncture, where evolving preferences and emerging opportunities are reshaping traditional pathways. The boundaries of global talent mobility are expanding, driven by a complex interplay of personal ambition, sector-specific demands, and evolving work modalities. Understanding these dynamics will help stakeholders navigate the future of work, harnessing the full potential of global talent mobility for mutual growth and development.”