The United Arab Emirates’ labor market is experiencing a dynamic shift, marked by a significant increase in the participation of young Emirati talent, particularly women. Recent data released by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation reveals a compelling trend: as of the third quarter of the current year, young workers (aged 35 and under) constitute a substantial 55.1% of the total workforce. This surge in القوى العاملة الشابة (young workforce) underscores the nation’s economic vitality and its success in attracting and retaining skilled youth across diverse sectors.
نمو القوى العاملة الشابة في الإمارات (Growth of the Young Workforce in the UAE)
The UAE’s commitment to fostering a thriving labor market is clearly bearing fruit. The figures demonstrate not just an increase in numbers, but a qualitative shift towards a more skilled and empowered workforce. This growth is fueled by proactive initiatives designed to protect workers’ rights and enhance mobility within the private sector. The overall workforce saw a notable increase of 10.9% in 2024, continuing its upward trajectory with an 8.9% rise through the third quarter of 2025.
This positive momentum extends to the number of businesses operating within the country. A robust 14.9% growth in establishments was recorded during 2024, followed by a further 6.6% increase up to the third quarter of 2025. These statistics collectively paint a picture of a highly active and expanding business landscape, supported by a growing and skilled workforce.
دور المرأة الإماراتية في سوق العمل (The Role of Emirati Women in the Labor Market)
A particularly prominent feature of this growth is the increasingly significant role of Emirati women. Data from the Labor Market Observatory, reviewed by Al Emarat Al Youm, highlights that 97.3% of Emirati women employed in the private sector are classified as skilled professionals. This demonstrates a strong focus on quality employment opportunities for women.
Furthermore, 73.2% of Emirati women aged 35 and under working in the private sector contribute to this skilled demographic. This is a clear indication of the success of national programs aimed at empowering youth and boosting their participation in the workforce. The UAE has consistently prioritized gender equality and the economic inclusion of women, and these numbers reflect that commitment. This focus on تمكين المرأة (women empowerment) is a cornerstone of the nation’s economic diversification strategy.
التخصصات المهنية الأكثر انتشاراً بين النساء (Most Popular Professional Fields Among Women)
The presence of women is particularly strong in key sectors vital to the UAE’s future. They dominate the healthcare and education fields, holding 66.4% of jobs in healthcare professions and a remarkable 72.3% in education.
Interestingly, women are also making significant inroads into the technology sector, representing 37.9% of all professionals in information technology. This growing representation in STEM fields is crucial for driving innovation and achieving the UAE’s ambitious technological goals. The increasing number of women in القطاعات الحيوية (vital sectors) is a testament to their capabilities and the opportunities available to them.
القيادات النسائية والمناصب الإدارية (Women in Leadership and Management Positions)
The impact of Emirati women extends beyond professional roles to encompass leadership and management positions. A substantial 93.3% of Emirati citizens working in educational professions within the private sector, as of the third quarter of 2025, are women. Similarly, 90.6% of Emirati citizens in healthcare professions in the private sector are female. In the rapidly growing field of information technology, women comprise 60.5% of Emirati citizens employed.
On the broader leadership front, women hold 16.6% of all leadership positions in the UAE. However, within the private sector, Emirati women are even more prominently represented in leadership roles, accounting for 53.9% of all Emirati citizens in such positions. This demonstrates a clear pathway for women to ascend to senior management and contribute to strategic decision-making.
مستقبل القوى العاملة في الإمارات (The Future of the Workforce in the UAE)
The statistics reveal that Emirati women constitute 71% of all citizens working in technical and specialized professions. Moreover, they represent 71% of the skilled Emirati workforce in the private sector. These figures underscore the critical role women play in driving the UAE’s knowledge-based economy.
The continued growth of the سوق العمل الإماراتي (UAE labor market), coupled with the increasing participation of young, skilled nationals – and particularly women – signals a bright future for the country. The government’s ongoing commitment to supportive policies and initiatives will undoubtedly further enhance these positive trends, solidifying the UAE’s position as a global hub for talent and innovation.
This positive trajectory requires continued investment in education, training, and mentorship programs to ensure that the young workforce remains competitive and adaptable to the evolving demands of the global economy. The UAE is well-positioned to capitalize on the potential of its youth and build a sustainable, prosperous future for all.