In the vibrant and ever-evolving job market of the Middle East, professionals are increasingly making bold career moves to enhance their earnings and advance their careers. As the region continues to experience rapid economic growth and diversification, many individuals are seizing opportunities to reposition themselves strategically. Here’s a look at some of the key trends and strategies driving these dynamic career shifts.
1. Leveraging Emerging Industries
The Middle East’s economic landscape is diversifying beyond traditional oil and gas sectors. As countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar invest heavily in technology, renewable energy, and tourism, professionals are pivoting towards these burgeoning fields.
- Technology and Innovation: With the rise of smart cities and digital transformation, tech roles are in high demand. Professionals are upskilling in areas like data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity to tap into these opportunities. For instance, professionals with expertise in blockchain and fintech are finding lucrative positions in the region’s growing digital economy.
- Renewable Energy: As the Middle East invests in sustainable energy sources, roles in solar and wind energy are becoming increasingly valuable. Professionals with experience in environmental engineering, renewable energy project management, and sustainable practices are seeing significant salary increases.
2. Entrepreneurship and Startups
Entrepreneurship is gaining traction across the Middle East, driven by supportive government policies and a growing culture of innovation. Many professionals are leaving traditional corporate roles to start their own ventures or join startups, often in search of higher earnings and greater control over their careers.
- Tech Startups: The region’s startup ecosystem is flourishing, particularly in cities like Dubai and Riyadh. Professionals with a background in tech are finding opportunities in everything from e-commerce to healthtech, often with the potential for significant financial rewards through equity stakes.
- Consulting and Freelancing: The gig economy is also on the rise. Experienced professionals are leveraging their expertise by offering consulting services or freelancing, enjoying the flexibility to choose projects and clients while commanding higher fees.
3. Pursuing Higher Education and Certifications
To stay competitive and boost their earnings, many professionals are investing in further education and specialized certifications.
- Advanced Degrees: Pursuing an MBA or other advanced degrees from reputable institutions can open doors to higher-level positions and salary increases. Many professionals are enrolling in programs that offer a global perspective and align with their career goals.
- Professional Certifications: Certifications in areas like project management (PMP), financial analysis (CFA), and digital marketing are becoming essential. These qualifications not only enhance a professional’s skill set but also signal to employers a commitment to excellence and a readiness for more challenging roles.
4. Strategic Relocation
Relocation within the Middle East—or even to other regions—can be a strategic move for professionals seeking better opportunities.
- High-Demand Markets: Professionals are moving to high-demand markets where their skills are scarce and therefore more valuable. For example, relocating to a city with a burgeoning tech sector or a region with new infrastructure projects can lead to substantial salary boosts.
- International Opportunities: Some are expanding their horizons by considering opportunities outside the Middle East, where their skills are in demand. This global approach can lead to substantial increases in earnings and career advancement.
5. Building Personal Brand and Networking
In today’s competitive job market, building a strong personal brand and effective networking are crucial.
- Online Presence: Professionals are enhancing their online profiles through platforms like LinkedIn, showcasing their expertise, achievements, and thought leadership. This visibility can attract higher-paying opportunities and connect them with key industry players.
- Networking Events: Attending industry conferences, seminars, and networking events helps professionals stay updated on trends, connect with potential employers or clients, and uncover new career opportunities.
Lebanese expat Ghassan Khairallah spent 12 years as a customer relationship manager at a bank in Dubai, where he was responsible for selling credit cards, loans, fixed deposits, mortgages, investments, and insurance products. However, during the Covid-19 pandemic, he lost his job and faced two years of unemployment.
“My former manager would often suggest that I use my negotiation skills and network to explore real estate as a more lucrative career,” says Khairallah, 44, who resides in Arabian Ranches, Dubai. “At the time, I was hesitant to take the risk due to family responsibilities.”
The job loss prompted Khairallah to reassess his career path. “I realized that as a salesman, I could adapt and sell anything, anywhere,” he explains. Embracing this realization, he transitioned from banking to real estate, joining property technology start-up Huspy in 2022 as an agent. He has since advanced to the role of sales director.
“All this progress has been made possible through customer referrals and my commitment to integrity and loyalty. I applied the same principles from my banking career—if I don’t believe in the product, I can’t convincingly sell it.”
In addition to his role at Huspy, Khairallah and his wife run a property maintenance company and he earns additional income from rental properties.
This trend of leveraging transferable skills to switch careers is gaining momentum in the region, according to recruitment experts. The Middle East Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2024 by TASC Outsourcing reveals that 44% of regional employees are considering changing jobs within the next year, a notable increase compared to the global average of 28%. The desire for improved financial prospects and career advancement is driving this shift, with 71% of respondents seeking a pay raise and 67% looking for promotions.
Opportunities for acquiring new skills are also a significant factor, with 67% of Middle Eastern employees prioritizing this aspect compared to 47% globally. The rapid pace of technological advancements is fueling this eagerness to learn, with 63% believing that artificial intelligence, generative AI, and robotics will impact their jobs in the next three years, compared to 46% worldwide.
Anil Singh, senior vice-president and country leader of Saudi Arabia at TASC Group, notes that professionals are using skills such as effective communication, leadership, problem-solving, and digital literacy to adapt and thrive in new roles and industries. The UAE’s dynamic job market and evolving economy are driving this trend, as workers recognize the value of their diverse skill sets and explore new career avenues.
Recruiters value the ability to transition smoothly between roles, as it demonstrates adaptability and versatility. Tailoring skills to job descriptions and highlighting measurable achievements can enhance CVs and career prospects.
However, Mark Timms, founding partner and chief growth officer at GRG, points out the competitive nature of the UAE job market. With more jobseekers than available opportunities, candidates must meet numerous criteria to be considered for positions. Timms explains that in a market where there might be ten requirements for a job, those who do not meet at least nine will struggle to secure an interview.
Kristina Melsova, a Czech national, has successfully utilized her transferable skills to transition across various industries, including banking, e-commerce, food delivery, and now the travel and creator economy. After working in Prague as an Agile coach, she moved to Dubai and took on a role in HR with Talabat, a food delivery platform. “I’m open to switching careers every few years because I believe in broadening my experience,” says Melsova, 30. “This approach helps me stay competitive, enjoy my work, and continually learn new things.”
Melsova recently launched her own start-up, Atlasseek, which connects five-star hotels, destinations, and tour companies with travel creators to promote travel experiences. “Having diverse experiences across departments like IT, product management, and leadership has been invaluable as an entrepreneur,” she adds. “I believe in being curious, adaptable, and focusing on how I can add value, rather than sticking to one expertise.”
Timms observes that finance, IT, and HR functions have remained resilient against industry biases due to their fundamental principles, making transferable skills increasingly important. “Professionals aged 30 to 45 are the most active in seeking career changes,” he says. “However, they must balance the excitement of a new opportunity with potential compromises, such as financial adjustments or changes in seniority.”
For TASC Group’s Singh, emphasizing transferable skills is crucial for enhancing employability and adaptability. Many professionals seek career changes to find more fulfilling and meaningful work that aligns with their values, interests, and long-term goals. The dynamic job market and technological advancements have created new possibilities, while economic factors such as job stability and better compensation also drive career exploration.
Timms adds, “The UAE offers an exceptional living and working environment, but this can also create glass ceilings and hinder professional growth. Many professionals seek change due to stagnation and boredom.”
Singh highlights that industries facing high attrition include leisure and hospitality, healthcare, and social assistance. White-collar professionals often leave roles lacking in meaning, challenge, or growth opportunities. Conversely, many sectors are becoming more open to candidates from diverse backgrounds, which fosters innovation and resilience in the workforce.
By reinventing recruitment strategies and focusing on upskilling, organizations can attract diverse talent and adapt to the evolving job market, leading to more dynamic and resilient industries.
The Middle East job market is vibrant and full of opportunities for professionals willing to make bold career moves. By leveraging emerging industries, embracing entrepreneurship, pursuing advanced education, strategically relocating, and building a strong personal brand, individuals can significantly boost their earnings and advance their careers. As the region continues to evolve, staying agile and proactive will be key to achieving career success and financial growth.
