Banking, IT and marketing are most popular industries in UAE

60% of UAE employees want to change their industry for a better salary.

The number of UAE employees who want to change their industry is on the rise for greener pastures as well as for better career growth opportunities.

A new survey released by YouGov and Bayt.com revealed that 6 in 10 professionals in the UAE are considering an industry change in the next few months. Around half of them – 49 per cent – are citing better salary as the top reason for an industry change followed by better career growth at 46 per cent.

The survey found that hospitality, recreation and entertainment emerged as the most appealing industries amongst those who consider an industry change.

Zafar Shah, research director at YouGov said the findings will support future earners and employees as well as offer a glimpse of industries hiring fresh graduates so they can access meaningful employment and thrive in today’s job market.

It further revealed around a quarter of UAE employees changed their industry at least once in the past two years for higher salaries and better career growth opportunities as the top two reasons for changing their industry.

A recent survey released by Cooper Fitch revealed that 23 per cent of organisations will reduce their headcount, whereas 59 per cent will cut their headcount by up to 10 per cent or more in 2022.

The Bayt.com survey, which was conducted online from February 9 to 28, 2022, found that job seekers are most interested in working in banking, finance, accounting, IT and advertising, marketing and public relations sectors.

“The survey provides the timely insights needed to orient Mena professionals towards opportunities as well as optimise recruiters’ hiring efforts. We find that technology-driven job creation is forecast to rise with IT/ Internet/ E-commerce expected to record the strongest growth in the coming year,” said Zafar Shah.