UAE records one of strongest post-pandemic hiring recoveries globally, with early signs of 2026 rebound

The United Arab Emirates has achieved one of the world's most robust hiring recoveries following the pandemic, according to the UAE Economic Graph Report 2026. Prepared by LinkedIn in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Trade, the report highlights that in 2025, the UAE sustained hiring activity above 2019 figures, a feat accomplished by only a few countries globally. This resilience underscores the effectiveness of the UAE's economic policies in navigating global uncertainty.

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Talent and competencies are a key pillar in enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy and consolidating the UAE's position as a global hub for trade, investment and innovation.

While the early months of 2026 presented a period of volatility in regional hiring and talent migration, recent data for June 2026 indicates a positive recovery trend. Both hiring activity and inbound talent flows are showing improvement, positioning the UAE to build on its 2025 successes as market conditions stabilize.

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The results of this report confirm the success of the country's economic policies in building a global business environment that attracts the brightest minds, talents and quality investments, in support of our national goal of building a more competitive and sustainable economy.

Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade and Minister in charge of Attracting and Retaining Talent, emphasized the critical role of talent in enhancing national economic competitiveness and solidifying the UAE's status as a global hub. He stated that the report's findings validate the country's economic strategies in fostering a business environment that attracts top talent and investments, aligning with the national goal of a more competitive and sustainable economy.

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The UAE government has developed an integrated strategy to attract and retain the best international talent, based on its belief that human capital is the main driver of sustainable economic growth.

The report also identified key sectors driving this hiring performance. Real estate led with the highest hiring growth rate compared to 2019. Education, construction, healthcare, administrative and support services, and transport and logistics also maintained hiring levels above the national average. Professional services remain the largest sector by LinkedIn membership, followed by manufacturing and accommodation and hospitality.

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We will continue to develop this ecosystem to strengthen our economy's readiness for the future, support innovation, and position the UAE as a global hub for talent and the new economy.