How to Attract and Retain Emirati Talent

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has positioned itself as a global hub for business, innovation, and cultural diversity. However, certain industries in the country are grappling with a significant challenge—shortage of skilled Emirati talent. 

As companies strive to maintain their competitive edge, bridging this talent gap has become paramount. 

The 2022 Zurich’s survey echoes the prevailing struggle. A staggering 52% of employers in the UAE said they believe there is a talent shortage, with sales, marketing, and data science witnessing the worst. This scarcity isn't just a fleeting issue; it has far-reaching implications for the nation's progress.

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In this comprehensive article, we will delve deep into the current talent landscape in the UAE, examining the reasons behind the lack of Emirati talent. Furthermore, we will provide actionable steps—strategies that organizations can immediately adopt—to attract and retain Emirati talent, enriching their workforce and contributing to the nation's growth.

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Exploring the Reasons for the Lack of Emirati Talent

Let’s take a deep dive into the factors contributing to the scarcity of Emirati talent in the workforce: 

1. Unexpected Salary Expectations

The 2022 Hays GCC Salary Guide, as reported by Khaleej Times, shows that 21 percent of employers grapple with the challenge of unrealistic salary demands from applicants. This mismatch between compensation expectations and market realities poses a significant obstacle to talent acquisition and retention.

2. Inefficiencies in Hiring Timelines

Another challenge lies in organizations not effectively positioning themselves within the talent market. This oversight translates into the loss of potential candidates to more established brands. A streamlined and agile recruitment process becomes not just an advantage, but a necessity.

3. Outsourcing and Freelancing

Addressing the shortage by tapping into expat talent through remote work opportunities has become a common recourse for companies struggling to find local candidates. Additionally, the trend of outsourcing and freelancing is gaining traction, allowing companies to fill roles swiftly with specialized skills from a global pool of talent.

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How to Attract and Retain Emirati Talent

Here are some practical approaches to draw in and keep Emirati talent within the country's employment landscape: 

1. Understanding Cultural Nuances

A pivotal step in attracting and retaining Emirati talent involves a deep appreciation of their cultural values and norms. Aligning company policies with values like stability, family, and community creates an environment that resonates with these professionals.

2. Offering Competitive Compensation

To overcome the challenge of unrealistic salary expectations, employers can meticulously research prevailing market rates to design attractive and reasonable compensation packages. This isn't just about meeting expectations; it's about valuing the contributions of Emirati talent.

3. Streamlining the Hiring Process

Swift and transparent hiring processes counter delays that could lead candidates elsewhere. Clear communication, streamlined procedures, and timely decision-making enhance the candidate experience.

4. Investing in Professional Development

A robust commitment to professional growth can foster long-term loyalty. Providing tailored training programs and a clear pathway for advancement addresses the aspirations of Emirati talent.

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Iris: An AI Talent Scout that Can Help You Find Emirati Talent

Introducing an AI-driven platform designed to help connect employers with exceptional talent:

To address the multifaceted issue of talent shortage, Iris stands as a potential catalyst. By combining the power of advanced algorithms and deep learning, It can help you find the best talent that falls under your ideal candidate profile. Its intelligent evaluation process goes beyond conventional metrics, ensuring that employers are matched with candidates whose skills and potential align seamlessly with their organizational needs.

So if you're planning to planning to hire Emirati talent Iris can also help you meet your Emiratisation goals.

Iris uses AI-driven recruitment solutions to search, evaluate, and match you to top Emirati talent - all in the blink of an eye. Its swift and precise approach not only saves time but also provides a level of insight that manual searches can't replicate. The platform's seamless interface empowers organizations to elevate candidate outreach by discovering the hidden gems of Emirati talent effortlessly.

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UAE’s Path Forward

The scarcity of Emirati talent is not merely a challenge; it's a transformative opportunity that compels strategic action. By embracing strategies founded on cultural understanding, competitive remuneration, and efficient operations, companies can cultivate an ecosystem where local talent truly flourishes. 

This commitment to nurturing homegrown potential seamlessly aligns with the UAE's visionary objectives, positioning organizations to bolster not only their own triumphs but also the nation's sustained influence on the global arena. In shaping a future where Emirati talent leads the charge, businesses simultaneously shape a legacy of enduring accomplishment for both themselves and the UAE.