Two in three professionals in the UAE are ready to switch jobs for better pay, according to Korn Ferry’s latest Workforce 2025 report, which reveals shifting priorities among the nation’s workforce amid mounting living costs and evolving workplace dynamics.
The report, based on insights from over 15,000 professionals across ten global markets, includes a dedicated analysis of the UAE, highlighting rising financial pressures, trust in leadership, and generational tensions as key factors shaping employee sentiment.
As the cost of housing and education continues to rise, many UAE workers feel their salaries have not kept pace. Nearly 80% of employees say they would consider changing jobs for better compensation, with benefits, job security, and career advancement also cited as important motivators.
Trust in management plays a critical role in retention. Three in five UAE professionals say they would stay in their current roles because they trust their managers. However, 44% report discomfort in discussing personal issues with their leaders, pointing to a lack of psychological safety in the workplace.
The report also underscores friction between generations. Nearly 70% of Gen Z professionals identify communication and collaboration with older colleagues as a major challenge. Many feel overlooked for training and senior roles due to their age, raising concerns around inclusivity and talent development.
Korn Ferry’s findings suggest that while UAE employees remain optimistic about the future, organisations must address the growing disconnect between what workers expect and what employers deliver — especially in a competitive talent market.
News Source: Empyre Communications
