79.1% of MENA professionals use the holy month for job search and career advancement
Contrary to popular belief that recruitment slows down during Ramadan, hiring activity in the UAE remains robust. Many industries are actually experiencing a surge in demand, creating valuable opportunities for job-seekers.
Ramadan: A Strategic Time for Job Hunting
A comprehensive survey by Bayt.com reveals that 79.1% of professionals across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region leverage Ramadan to focus on their job search and professional development. Despite reduced working hours, industries including FMCG, F&B, logistics, e-commerce, and healthcare are seeing increased hiring as businesses prepare for heightened consumer demand.
Ramy Labaky, general director of Bayt.com, emphasised Ramadan’s dual nature for jobseekers – both challenging and opportunistic. “Yes, things might slow down a bit, but companies are actively looking for talent,” he stated. “Patience and persistence are key. A personal connection during this time can make a lasting impact.”
Recruiters in Pre-Eid Rush
Other experts concur with Labaky, noting that recruiters are not only hiring during Ramadan but are also hastening to finalise candidates before Eid al Fitr.
Nicki Wilson, owner and managing director of Genie Recruitment, commented: “We are absolutely inundated with jobs this Ramadan. Since Ramadan and Eid fall within the peak hiring season, many companies are rushing to finalise hiring before the extended Eid break.”
She further dispelled the myth that hiring slows during Ramadan. “We have seen strong recruitment activity, especially in FMCG, F&B, and support roles, as businesses scale up for the season,” Wilson added.
The survey also found that 69% of professionals believe hiring actually increases during Ramadan, particularly in customer service, supply chain management, and temporary roles. Many organisations use this period to finalise hiring strategies for post-Ramadan projects, making it a strategic time for both employers and job seekers.
Networking Opportunities at Iftar
Recruiters highlight that business iftars and suhoor gatherings offer excellent networking prospects. These informal settings allow professionals to connect with industry leaders.
“Iftar and suhoor gatherings are great networking opportunities. People are more relaxed and open to conversations. A simple introduction at the right event can lead to unexpected career opportunities,” Wilson observed.
Pre-Eid Rush vs Post-Eid Decisions
Experts note that hiring trends during Ramadan vary. Some companies accelerate decisions to close positions before Eid, while others postpone hiring until after the holiday.
When asked whether hiring speeds up or slows down, experts responded with a “yes and no.”
“It depends on timing,” explained Wilson. “If you catch the right person at the right moment, urgency can actually speed up the process. We have seen quick placements happening because companies want to finalise hires before the break.”
Strategic Follow-ups Essential
With shortened working hours, jobseekers must be strategic with follow-ups, experts advised. “Follow up professionally, but don’t overdo it. Hiring managers are balancing multiple tasks, so a well-timed, polite check-in is more effective than excessive follow-ups,” Wilson recommended.
For jobseekers hesitant about applying during Ramadan, Wilson’s advice is straightforward: “Don’t slow down your job search. Hiring is still happening.”
Key Takeaway
Ramadan presents a distinctive opportunity for job seekers in the UAE, with increased hiring activity across various sectors. Strategic networking, professional follow-ups, and persistent job searching during this period can lead to successful career advancement, contradicting the misconception that recruitment slows down during the holy month.
JobXDubai 
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