More than nine in 10 UAE professionals plan to remain in the country over the next year, according to new research. The findings show continued confidence in the UAE as a place to build a career and pursue professional opportunities. Around 91 percent of respondents said they plan to live and work in the country during the next six to 12 months.
Meanwhile, 66 percent said they definitely intend to stay. The results highlight the UAE’s strong appeal among skilled workers and international talent. They also reflect confidence in the country’s employment market as businesses continue adapting to rapid workplace changes.
The research also points to improving conditions across the UAE labor market. Recent employment trends indicate a recovery in hiring activity after periods of uncertainty. International talent flows have also shown signs of renewed growth. As a result, many workers appear increasingly confident about their long-term prospects in the country.
However, the research identified another important issue involving professional networking. While many respondents understand the value of building professional relationships, a large number remain hesitant to participate actively in professional communities.
Nearly 96 percent of respondents said their professional network plays an important role in navigating their careers. This importance has grown as artificial intelligence and other technologies continue changing workplaces. Despite this recognition, 74 percent said they often browse career-related content without actively participating.
The results suggest a significant difference between following professional conversations and becoming part of them. Around 42 percent said they were unsure how to begin building a professional network. Another 41 percent said they did not know how to turn professional connections into meaningful relationships.
Confidence also creates a barrier for many workers who want to expand their networks. Around 40 percent said they worry about bothering people or wasting their time when making contact. In addition, 33 percent said they fear other professionals could judge them. More than half of respondents, or 58 percent, said they had not received enough guidance about building professional relationships.
However, the research suggests that these concerns may not reflect how other professionals actually feel. Around 86 percent said they would likely respond to or support someone seeking career advice, even without knowing that person personally.
Skills and experience remain the most important factors for many workers seeking new opportunities. Around 39 percent said these qualities give them the strongest chance of finding career opportunities. However, professional networks also play an important role, with 25 percent identifying them as a key advantage. Another 23 percent pointed to online visibility as an important factor.
These findings show that professional success increasingly depends on more than technical skills and experience. Instead, visibility, relationships, knowledge, and participation can work together to create new career opportunities.
The benefits of professional communities are already clear among many respondents. Around 42 percent said online professional communities helped them increase their knowledge. Meanwhile, 41 percent said they made a connection that supported their career. Therefore, professional networking can provide practical benefits beyond simply expanding a contact list.
Regular participation can help workers exchange knowledge, discover opportunities, and learn from people working in different fields. For newcomers to the UAE, these connections may also provide useful information about industries and career paths.
LinkedIn career expert Najat Abdelhadi said the UAE remains an attractive place for people seeking ambitious and long-term careers. She also highlighted the growing importance of visibility and relationships in a changing employment market. According to the research, workers can begin networking without making large requests or sending complicated messages.
Instead, simple interactions can gradually create stronger professional relationships. Responding to posts, sharing useful information, and joining relevant conversations can help professionals become more visible within their industries.
The findings suggest that UAE professionals remain optimistic about their future in the country. At the same time, the research shows that many workers could benefit from becoming more active within professional communities. Building relationships does not always require a major commitment.
Small and consistent interactions can eventually create valuable connections and opportunities. This approach could prove especially useful for people who recently moved to the UAE, started their careers, or want to enter a different industry.
The survey involved 625 people working either full-time or part-time in the UAE. Researchers collected responses between July 20 and August 10, 2026. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 80. The research examined their views on career development, professional networking, workplace changes, and future plans. Overall, the findings show strong confidence among UAE professionals while also highlighting the growing importance of networking in a rapidly changing labor market.
