A total of 78 per cent of professionals in the UAE are open to changing roles, according to findings from the Michael Page UAE Salary Guide 2027 reported by Gulf Business. The study revealed that only 23 per cent of UAE professionals perceive generative artificial intelligence (AI) as a threat to their long-term job security, with workers focusing increasingly on productivity gains, career advancement, and new opportunities.
Workplace flexibility continues to play a central role in retention decisions, with 51 per cent of survey respondents stating they would be more likely to consider leaving their employer if required to spend more time working from the office. At the same time, salary expectations among UAE professionals continue to exceed the compensation review budgets of many organisations.
The consultancy's guide benchmarks compensation across more than 500 roles in 18 sectors, assessing pay variances by experience level and corporate size, as well as roles projected to be in high demand in 2027. Beyond direct monetary compensation, employees are placing elevated weight on career progression pathways, flexible working models, and learning opportunities.
Jon Ede, managing director of Michael Page Middle East, stated that despite geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty testing businesses across various markets in 2026, the UAE continues to stand out globally as a resilient and attractive talent market with solid hiring activity and demand for specialised skills. In response, employers are increasingly reviewing compensation packages, investing in staff development, and providing flexible working arrangements to protect their workforce.
Sources
- Gulf Business · 2026-10-27
