A recent survey has spotlighted a growing concern among UAE professionals about their career longevity. Over 60% of UAE employees express significant worry about maintaining relevant qualifications and skills for future employment demands.
Key Findings from the Research
The Institute for Future Readiness surveyed more than 1,000 UAE residents, revealing striking insights about professional development in the emirates. The study, focusing on continuous learning attitudes, highlighted that 71% of participants recognise lifelong learning as essential for future success.
Dr Selina Neri, CEO and co-founder of the institute, emphasises: “Professional skills have shifted from being optional additions to fundamental requirements for career sustainability.”
The Skills Shelf-Life Challenge
Industry experts point to a dramatic shift in skill longevity. According to Peter Cheese, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), professional skills now have a half-life of just 3-4 years. This rapid obsolescence rate means professionals must regularly refresh their skill set to stay competitive.
Corporate Response Falls Short
Despite clear evidence supporting the need for continuous learning:
- Only 22% of employees feel their companies offer sufficient upskilling opportunities
- Over 50% of C-suite leaders acknowledge upskilling as key to productivity
- Nearly half of company leaders identify skills gaps as a major business threat
UAE’s Position in Global Skills Transformation
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 places the UAE at 11th globally for job market disruption. The report predicts that 41% of UAE workers will need to transform their core skills between 2025 and 2030.
Expert Perspective
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, director general of the Institute for Future Readiness, states: “Personal and organisational investment in development is vital for maintaining competitiveness and preparing for future challenges.”
Mercer’s Radhika Punshi adds that productivity gains from AI adoption depend heavily on workforce reskilling readiness.
Key Takeaway
The research underscores a critical gap between workforce awareness of skill development needs and available training opportunities. This disconnect presents both a challenge and opportunity for UAE organisations to strengthen their professional development programmes.
This article aligns with the latest research from the Institute for Future Readiness, conducted in Q4 2024.
JobXDubai 
Leave a comment