finance
Skill Shortages Create Headwinds for Deira Employers This Year
Nearly half of UAE companies report difficulty filling positions despite widespread hiring plans.
How we reported this
Forty-seven percent of UAE employers say they cannot locate candidates with the needed expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, green energy and project management.
The gap stands out because 92 percent of firms across the country intend to add staff during the year. The mismatch leaves vacancies open even as overall employment rose 2.5 percent in the final quarter of 2025 in technology, finance, healthcare, construction, tourism, transport and energy.
Walk-in hiring continues in Deira
Business Village, Block B in Deira still hosts daily walk-in interviews from Monday through Saturday for market vacancies. Recruiters note that many applicants lack the digital and transformation skills listed in the postings, lengthening the time roles remain unfilled.
Hiring across the Middle East increased 25 percent in the past three to six months, driven by non-oil growth. The UAE posted the world’s highest Net Employment Outlook at between 46 and 48 percent at the start of 2026. Those figures reflect demand, yet they also highlight where the pipeline of qualified workers falls short.
Where employers are looking next
Companies that cannot fill posts immediately are turning to internal training in the four shortage areas. Some are widening searches to candidates who can be upskilled on the job rather than hiring only those already certified. Others are adjusting role requirements to include shorter certification courses that can be completed while working.
Job seekers are advised to check the posted requirements at Business Village sessions and to target short courses in the listed skill areas before applying. Employers continue to post openings on a rolling basis, so matching current credentials to those listings remains the most direct route to placement.
This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.