50% jump in blue-collar worker migration from India to Gulf nations; UP tops list

The demographic profile of Indian migrants to Dubai in 2023 reveals a workforce primarily concentrated in the 20-40 age range, indicative of individuals in their prime working years

There has been a 50 percent increase in the migration of blue-collar workers from India to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations in the first seven months of 2023, according to a study conducted by Huntr, a United Arab Emirates-based marketplace connecting migrant workers with enterprises.

The report said economic opportunities, higher salaries and shifts in migration patterns underpin the trend. The study, which considered a sample size of 1 lakh workers, marked a shift in migration patterns — with Kerala, a historically significant contributor — experiencing a drastic 90 percent decrease over the last decade.

The void left by Kerala was filled by Uttar Pradesh and Bihar emerging as the foremost contributors to the Gulf migration landscape. The top five labour-sending states include UP, Bihar, Kerala, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, while the preferred destinations remain Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman.

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According to the study, the demographic profile of Indian migrants to Dubai in 2023 reveals a workforce primarily concentrated in the 20-40 age range, indicative of individuals in their prime working years.

“While historically male-dominated, the landscape is evolving with a notable increase in female migrants, particularly in sectors such as hospitality. Qualifications among migrants vary widely, ranging from minimal formal education to vocational training with skill sets tailored to specific job roles,” the report said.

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Anticipating the employment landscape of 2024, there is a projected surge in demand for specific job roles in Dubai, including construction workers, manufacturing technicians, hospitality staff and healthcare support staff. This forecast aligns with the UAE's substantial investment in manufacturing and infrastructure, indicating a strategic move to accommodate the influx of skilled workers from India.