Young Emiratis Prioritize Culture Over Quotas

Al-Futtaim released a white paper, produced with the American University in Dubai, KPMG Middle East and G42, based on a survey of more than 500 Emiratis aged 18–25 that finds young nationals prioritize work-life balance, supportive culture and long-term growth over quota-driven incentives. Key findings include 53% valuing work-life balance, 82% valuing creativity, gaps in training and mentorship, and 36% open to working abroad, prompting recommendations to shift Emiratisation toward quality, harmonise pensions and expand experiential learning.
Key Points
- 1Prioritize work-life balance and culture: 53% value balance, 51% supportiveness.
- 2Highlight skills and experience gaps: 33% cite entry competition, 23% limited training, 21% lack mentorship.
- 3Recommend policy and employer reforms: shift Emiratisation to quality, harmonise pensions, expand industry exposure.
Scoring Rationale
Actionable, credible white paper with new survey data, but limited to UAE youth and sector-specific scope.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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