Will 2025 be the year of skills transformation? It seems likely, as recent reports suggest that experts, organisations, and workforces are increasingly rethinking the skills needed in today's job market.

A recent study by the Institute for Future Readiness found that 63 percent of UAE residents are increasingly concerned about their qualifications, skills, and experience not aligning with the evolving job market. However, 71 percent view continuous learning as a source of optimism and excitement for the future of work.

What are the top skills needed for the future of work?

The report highlights the perspectives of both young and experienced talent on continuous learning and skill development. With growing concerns about skill relevance, 63 percent of survey respondents identified leadership and technology as critical skills for future preparedness.

Meanwhile, around 60 percent emphasised the importance of soft skills—such as listening, communication, empathy, critical thinking, motivation, and problem-solving. Additionally, 58 percent highlighted mental health and well-being skills as crucial, while 49 percent pointed to green skills as essential.

Another key skill for the future, cited by 42 percent of respondents, is an entrepreneurial mindset.

Lack of support becoming a challenge..

The report also underlined a key concern – employers’ role in skill development of their workforce. Only 22 percent of the respondents agreed that they were receiving adequate training and upskilling opportunities from their employers. The respondents asserted that company-lead learning and development opportunities are crucial for their future readiness. 

Dr. Selina Neri, CEO, Dean & Co-Founder of The Institute for Future Readiness offered suggestions based on the insights from the report. She said, “As we navigate a rapidly changing and increasingly complex world, the skills required to become and remain future-ready are no longer optional, but a must. While participants in the study are optimistic about the future, they are equally worried about how to stay relevant and continuously update their skills. Addressing these concerns requires viewing future readiness as a multi-dimensional framework – one that encompasses a lifelong commitment to developing competencies, experiences, drivers, and preferences, all aligned with the critical priorities of the future.”

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Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Director General & Co-Founder added that the UAE 2031 vision's Forward Society pillar emphasises human capital's growing importance in long-term value creation. Investing in holistic development allows individuals and organisations to keep pace with change, unlock their full potential, and secure their future-readiness.