The United Arab Emirates has emerged as the global frontrunner in hiring optimism for Q3 2025, according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey (MEOS). With a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of +48%, the UAE outpaces the global average (+24%) and secures the #1 spot worldwide for projected workforce expansion.
Surveying over 530 UAE employers, the report reveals that 56% plan to increase hiring, while just 8% anticipate workforce reductions. This bullish outlook underscores the UAE’s ongoing economic resilience, digital transformation, and commitment to innovation.
Sectoral Surge: Where Hiring Is Booming
Three sectors stand out for their aggressive hiring intentions:
- Transport, Logistics & Automotive (+64%): The strongest hiring sentiment globally, this sector reflects massive infrastructure investments, smart mobility projects, and surging demand for supply chain professionals.
- Energy & Utilities (+62%): Powered by diversification and sustainability initiatives, this sector’s outlook is 43 points above the global average, signaling the UAE’s continued leadership in energy transformation.
- Consumer Goods & Services (+60%): With tourism on the rebound and retail/FMCG sectors expanding, this domain posts an outlook 27 points above the global average.
The MEOS report identifies three major factors fueling this hiring surge:
- Company Expansion (38%): Businesses are growing rapidly, supported by economic stability and access to regional markets.
- Technological Advancements (32%): The need for digital skills is increasing as companies invest in transformation.
- New Business Ventures (31%): Employers are creating roles aligned with emerging industries and innovation-led strategies.
Despite this optimistic hiring climate, the survey also reflects strategic recalibrations. One in three employers (33%) is streamlining roles for efficiency, while 28% cite automation as a key influence reshaping workforce structures.
Global Context: UAE in the Lead
While the Europe and Middle East regional average sits at a modest +19%, the UAE’s +48% NEO puts it far ahead of countries like:
- Netherlands: +30%
- Ireland: +29%
This performance not only cements the UAE's standing as a regional powerhouse but also showcases its competitiveness on a global scale.
“The UAE is leading the global employment landscape with exceptional confidence in hiring for Q3 2025,” said Filip Rideau, Country Manager at ManpowerGroup Middle East. “The transport, consumer goods, and energy sectors are driving this momentum, signaling a strong demand for skilled talent across industries.”
What It Means for Employers and Job Seekers
For Employers: This is an opportunity to reimagine workforce strategies and invest in specialized talent. ManpowerGroup Middle East recommends embracing agility and aligning hiring with tech trends and shifting employee expectations.
For Job Seekers: Now is the time to explore roles in the UAE. With unprecedented demand across logistics, energy, IT, and consumer goods, the job market is ripe for both domestic talent and global professionals seeking new horizons.
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