A new hiring trend is taking shape in the UAE, with employers prioritizing skills, real-world experience, and the right attitude over traditional academic qualifications. This shift towards skill-based hiring is reshaping the job market, opening new opportunities for candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Skills Over Degrees: The New Normal
According to the ‘Workforce Trends and Market Insights’ report by Innovations Group, UAE employers are increasingly focused on a candidate’s abilities, practical experience, and problem-solving skills, rather than just academic credentials.
Zoe Charlton, Recruitment Consultant at Genie Recruitment, highlighted this shift:
“Around 70% of our clients now hire based solely on skills and work ethic. Only about 15% still prioritize educational background. Employers are more interested in what candidates can do, not just what degrees they hold.”
Charlton also noted that candidates with a ‘can-do mentality’ and a proactive approach are more likely to secure roles, especially in competitive industries.
“Many graduates assume they’ll land high-paying jobs immediately, but that’s no longer the case. Employers are looking for individuals with real-world experience and a strong work ethic.”
Industries Leading the Shift
The shift is particularly evident in tech-driven sectors like cybersecurity, AI, marketing, and digital media. In these fields, candidates with hands-on experience, bootcamp training, and certifications are often preferred over those with traditional degrees.
Aws Ismail, General Manager at Marc Ellis, Dubai, explained:
“Skill-based hiring is becoming the norm in the UAE. In fields like tech and marketing, employers value a strong portfolio, practical skills, and certifications over formal education. This approach helps companies build adaptable, high-performing teams.”
Ismail referenced a LinkedIn report showing that 45% of UAE companies are already adopting skills-based hiring practices—a trend long established in Europe but now gaining momentum in the region.
Why This Shift Matters
The move towards skills-based hiring offers several benefits:
- Wider Talent Pool: It opens doors for candidates from non-traditional backgrounds.
- Fairer Recruitment: Reduces bias towards elite institutions, focusing on capability over credentials.
- Agility in the Workforce: Companies can find candidates who are ready to adapt, learn, and contribute immediately.
Ismail describes this as "plug-and-play hiring," where businesses prioritize immediate impact and long-term potential.
Adapting to Market Demands
Nikhil Nanda, Director at Innovations Group, emphasized the need for companies to adapt to evolving market trends:
“The UAE is a dynamic hub with a skilled workforce. Recruitment strategies must address changing expectations, skill mismatches, and the demands of younger, tech-savvy talent.”
The Future of Hiring in the UAE
As the UAE continues to grow as a global business hub, the shift towards skills-based hiring is expected to accelerate. Employers are focusing on real-world competencies, adaptability, and growth potential, making it essential for job seekers to invest in continuous learning, practical experiences, and relevant certifications.
In today’s job market, it’s not just about what you’ve studied—it’s about what you can do.
News Source: Khaleej Times
