Dubai, UAE – The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have long been known for attracting expatriate workers with their lucrative salaries. However, a significant shift in mindset has emerged in recent times, as expats now view the region as a safer and more secure environment amidst global uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
GCC countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have managed to recover swiftly from the pandemic, while Western economies continue to grapple with its aftermath. This remarkable recovery has instilled a sense of security and optimism among expats, setting the GCC apart as a desirable destination for foreign workers.
Karine Trioullier, a career development coach, explains, “GCC countries, especially the UAE, managed to recover quickly from COVID-19 precautions, which gave expats a sense of security and optimism that is lacking in other countries.”
In the past, Western expats relied on the security provided by their governments through competitive incomes and financial support systems. However, the tides have turned, and the economic crisis in the West has left expats feeling concerned. Rising inflation rates, decreasing financial support, and escalating taxes have eroded their sense of security, leading many to seek better opportunities in the GCC region, particularly the UAE.
Top places in the MENA region for expats to live
| Country | GCC Rank | Global Position |
| Bahrain | 1 | 9th |
| UAE | 2 | 11th |
| Oman | 3 | 12th |
| Saudi Arabia | 4 | 28th |
| Qatar | 5 | 31st |
| Turkey | 6 | 51st |
| Kuwait | 7 | 53rd |
Conversely, Western expats with 10 to 12 years of experience face challenges finding suitable opportunities in their home countries. As a result, they are increasingly drawn back to the GCC, specifically Dubai. However, Asian employees have stepped in to fill the void left by returning Western expats.
While expats who choose to stay in the GCC region face challenges in saving money due to high inflation and stagnant salaries, the region remains attractive to newcomers who are willing to accept lower salaries to gain experience and establish themselves in the job market.
Trioullier highlighted that the GCC provides expats with a wealth of opportunities to learn new skills and develop their talents. The region fosters an environment where failure is seen as a stepping stone to success, allowing individuals to restart and reinvent themselves. Furthermore, launching businesses in the GCC carries a higher chance of success and international expansion, aided by the region’s low-interest rates.
The most in-demand talents in the GCC include public speakers, particularly in the finance sector, which poses a challenge to find. The health sector, sales, support and customer service, and client relations also require constant expertise. Skills acquired in the GCC include problem-solving, creative thinking, artificial intelligence, automation, and entrepreneurship with a global understanding of business.
Employment potential
In terms of employment potential, the retail trade sector in the Middle East ranks highest (87 percent) for 2024, according to the Job Opportunities Index. Business consulting or business management (85 percent) and oil, gas, and petrochemicals (76 percent) follow closely.
Employers in the UAE prioritize candidates with good communication skills in English and Arabic, the ability to work under pressure, and the ability to work within a team. Sales executives, sales managers, and marketing executives are the most in-demand positions.
LinkedIn data reveals that employers in Saudi Arabia are looking for advanced skills such as programming languages, cybersecurity, and software development. The non-oil sector in Saudi Arabia experienced rapid hiring activity in December 2022, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023 with the creation of new job opportunities through mega projects like NEOM.
The industrial sector is also projected to have significant employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, particularly in manufacturing and logistics. Government mega-projects to develop towns and industrial zones require talent from around the world to bring these projects to fruition.
The Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources aims to create 1.6 million new jobs before 2030. During the first six months of 2022, 26,000 new jobs were already created in the sector, showcasing the country’s commitment to job creation.
Overall, the GCC region remains an appealing destination for expats due to its recovery from the pandemic, attractive employment opportunities, and a conducive environment for skill development and entrepreneurship.