In collaboration with “The Network,” the Global Alliance of Employment Sites, and the “Stepstone” Group, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) conducted a study titled “Deconstructing Global Talent Code 2024” to analyze the United Arab Emirates’ position in attracting international professionals and talents. The study, which is part of a series monitoring talent trends since 2014, revealed that the UAE’s increasing appeal as a work destination for professionals worldwide. With input from 150,000 professionals from 188 countries, the survey found that Dubai and Abu Dhabi ranked third and fourth as preferred cities for work.
The study found that 73% of respondents attributed the UAE’s growing appeal to the quality of job opportunities. Other factors such as high income, low taxes, cost of living, and quality of life also contributed to its attractiveness. To further appeal to global talent, the UAE Cabinet approved a plan in 2022 to streamline residence visa processes for foreigners. This move aims to bolster opportunities in economic sectors like finance, private investment, risk capital, and artificial intelligence.
Maya Al-Hashim, Partner at BCG UAE expressed the country’s commitment to enhancing its labor market and attracting professionals from around the world. She highlighted strategic location, safe environment, competitive income levels and luxurious lifestyle as key factors in attracting professionals and talents. Despite global uncertainties, there was still a strong desire among participants for international job opportunities in 2023 with 73% favoring the UAE as an appealing work destination.
When examining workforce trends in the UAE
