A significant majority of professionals in the UAE are planning to build their futures within the country, with 91% stating they intend to live and work there over the next six to 12 months. Of this group, 66% expressed a definitive commitment to staying, reinforcing the nation’s status as a premier global hub for innovation and talent.
This trend of stability aligns with broader economic indicators. Data from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade and LinkedIn highlights that the country experienced one of the most robust post-pandemic hiring recoveries among major global markets throughout 2025. Early figures from June 2026 suggest a continued resurgence in hiring and international talent movement, following a period of volatility earlier in the year.
Despite this strong professional commitment, there remains a notable disconnect between recognizing the importance of networking and actively participating in professional communities. While 96% of respondents acknowledge that their professional network is vital for navigating a career landscape increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid workplace shifts, 74% admit to frequently browsing career-related content without ever engaging with it.
The research, which surveyed 625 full-time and part-time workers aged 18 to 80 between July 20 and August 10, 2026, identifies several barriers to engagement. Approximately 42% of professionals are unsure how to begin, while 41% struggle to convert initial connections into meaningful professional relationships. Confidence also plays a role, with 40% of respondents fearing they might be a nuisance or waste others’ time, and 33% expressing anxiety about being judged. Furthermore, 58% noted a lack of sufficient guidance on how to effectively grow their professional networks.
However, these concerns may be largely unfounded. The findings indicate that 86% of professionals would be willing to support or respond to someone seeking career assistance, even if they were not personally acquainted. This suggests a high level of openness that many are currently failing to leverage.
When it comes to career advancement, the research highlights that while skills and experience remain the primary drivers for 39% of professionals, networking and online visibility are increasingly critical. Roughly 25% of respondents credit a strong network for their success, while 23% prioritize online presence. The tangible benefits are clear: 42% of those surveyed reported increased knowledge through online communities, and 41% successfully made connections that directly supported their career goals.
Najat Abdelhadi, a Mena career expert at LinkedIn, emphasized that in a fast-paced labor market, technical skills alone are often insufficient. She noted that visibility and relationships are particularly essential for those early in their careers, newcomers to the country, or individuals looking to pivot into new sectors.
Abdelhadi encouraged professionals to start small, noting that building a network does not require grand gestures. She explained that simple interactions, such as engaging with a connection’s post, significantly boost visibility. In fact, LinkedIn members are nearly three times more likely to receive a connection request and five times more likely to receive a message if they have interacted with a post from one of their connections. The report also notes that with 66 per cent saying they definitely intend to stay, according to new research from LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, more than nine out of 10 – 91 per cent – of UAE professionals plan to continue living and working in the country over the next six to 12 months. The report also notes that two tankers on fire after hitting mines in Strait of Hormuz: IRGC. The report also notes that fire at Kuwait residential complex under control after Iran drone attack. The report also notes that bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan deal with attacks after US launches new strikes on Iran. The report also notes that iran security chief says US to face new war strategy after strikes. The report also notes that sharjah Ruler orders Sudan Private School to return fees after parent’s complaint. The report also notes that stay up to date with the latest news.
Source: Khaleej Times
