UAE workforce among region’s happiest

Some 44 per cent of the country’s workforce feel they are in the perfect job. Delores Johnson / The National

Workers in the UAE are some of the happiest in the region, according to a new survey.

Some 44 per cent of the country’s workforce feel they are in the perfect job, shows the study on career aspirations in the Middle East and North Africa by Bayt.com and Yougov.

The high levels of satisfaction have helped the UAE become the most preferred country for relocation among employees in the region.

However, nearly 60 per cent of workers in the UAE would like to be promoted, while about a third were concerned about losing their job.

And 64 per cent of the survey respondents cited a successful career, financial stability and independence as their top priorities in life, ahead of good health.

In terms of industry, the oil and gas sector was the preferred choice for 14 per cent of the respondents, while construction came second with 8 per cent, followed by banking and finance, advertising, marketing and public relations, and tourism and hospitality.

In the eastern Mediterranean, information technology and banking were the most preferred sectors.

Salary and a decent pay package topped respondents’ definition of an ideal job; they said an increase in pay would improve motivation.

Opportunities for career growth and job security were other important factors for respondents across the region.

More than 40 per cent of respondents said they would also like to become an expert in their field, and about a third had set professional goals for the next five years.

“It is quite apparent that one’s career is very important for Mena residents,” said Sundip Chahal, YouGov’s chief executive.

“And people seem to enjoy their jobs. Companies in the Mena [region] can try to plan better career growth routes to improve motivation at work.

“It’s also important to note that 44 per cent of respondents said that they would feel more motivated if they were given more opportunities to express creativity and showcase their skills.”

The respondents said the main barriers to career growth included the lack of growth opportunities and poor management within their company.

They said they believed the government could improve the overall working environment, with increased transparency in terms of salaries within companies, boosting job opportunities and improving the current labour laws.

Across the region, 48 per cent of respondents agreed that their job was perfect for them. Although 63 per cent of them would like to be promoted, just 28 per cent of respondents said there were opportunities for career advancement with their present employer.

Workers in North Africa said they were in their current jobs because it was the first offer they received, suggesting little choice and job opportunities even though 73 per cent of the respondents claimed to be motivated.