The Move of Talent from the UK to the UAE:
Why It’s Happening and What Does It Mean to normal people in the UK
Lately, post the July 2024 government change in the UK we’ve seen a growing trend in general dissatisfaction of support for the skilled working force in the UK driven by many increases of cost-of-living factors. We are now seeing the impact of a rapidly growing trend of government related decisions that seem to be targeting those that work hard and earn a reasonable living. These Government decisions seem to be suspiciously focused on or targeting the general working man in the street. Businesses are now reducing their work force, slowing down new business project growth which has a direct impact to those that actually want to work rather than those that want to sit at home in their pyjamas and watch Netflix.
“Following a recent visit to Dubai, I observed through several professional networking forums and discussions with recruitment agencies that, while there is an emphasis on sourcing local talent, there remains a strong demand for highly skilled international tech professionals,” says Craig Ashmole, Managing Director of Straightalking Consultancy in London. “Many individuals, particularly from the UK, are actively relocating to the UAE. Although this trend is not entirely new, it has become increasingly prominent—driven in part by ongoing uncertainty in the UK business landscape.”
So, what’s causing this shift? And what does it mean for both the UK, and of course the UAE’s growing tech scene?
What’s Behind This Shift?
A few reasons are fuelling this trend. First, without stating the obvious, things have been quite rocky in the UK lately. Inability to deliver Brexit, new changing government rules from Labour, and the resulting rising living costs are making it tough for people in general, including tech professionals. Many are feeling insecure about their jobs, companies are reducing staff due to UK NIC, projects are not expanded or are being shut down. So with all this uncertainty, and the buoyancy in the GCC region the UAE is looking much more appealing.
On the flip side, the UAE has been busy improving its tech scene. The government is working hard to bring in international talent. They offer tax benefits, support new ideas, and focus on digital projects. This makes them stand out as a tech hotspot. Plus, with a stable government and a booming economy, tech experts are noticing.
Due to the corporate growth and the modernisation of Financial services there’s a huge growing demand for IT professionals in the UAE. The country is focusing on areas like finance tech, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Many global companies are setting up shop there, chasing the growth. Living conditions are good too and becoming more affordable than 10 years ago including lower taxes and exciting digital projects to work on.
What This Means for the UAE
For the UAE, getting experienced IT workers is a big deal. These professionals bring valuable know-how and can really help local businesses grow. They can share best practices and drive new ideas.
The rest of the Middle East benefits too. Nations like Saudi Arabia and Qatar are also pushing for digital change. Having workers with international experience can help local tech hubs meet global standards. There’s a need for top talent to help with building smart cities and green tech. Experienced leaders from the UK can step right in. The UAE neighbours of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain are enticing talent away so thereby growing additional demand to the UAE.
Moving talent around helps share knowledge between Western and Middle Eastern tech worlds. This can boost innovation and grow the tech industry. It opens doors for global companies looking to tap into new markets.
The Need for Senior Leaders in the UAE
“While the UAE is pulling in a lot of tech workers, there’s still a gap in leadership roles”, Craig goes on to say. “The government driver to the Digital Dubai 2030 initiative and the demand on business to be leading AI and technology related growth in the wider GCC region is very obvious. Companies need seasoned IT executives to help them steer through big changes. The UAE has big plans for the future, and they need experienced leaders to make it happen”.
The demand for senior IT professionals is high. Companies want people who can manage large projects and handle big budgets. They need leaders who understand complex tech challenges. This is crucial for companies wanting to compete globally. They need top-notch talent to help find tech solutions across different fields.
How UAE Companies Can Attract and Keep Talent
The UAE knows it’s important to attract top talent. To really benefit from this wave of IT professionals, local companies must work hard to bring in experienced leaders. Offering good pay and benefits, building a strong work culture, and providing chances for growth are key.
It’s also important for local companies to team up with global firms. This mix of experience can help both sides learn.
As competition for senior IT roles heats up, retaining talent will be crucial. Companies will need to do more than just offer money. They have to create an environment where experienced professionals can thrive and help the UAE achieve its tech goals.
In Conclusion
The migration of IT talent from the UK to the UAE is driven by both political and tech factors. This trend gives the UAE a chance to grow as a tech leader. But, local UAE companies need to act quickly to attract the right leadership talent for their digital journey, as the demand for growth outweighs the local experience in country.
As the region’s tech market grows rapidly, it’s time for UAE companies to make their move. By bringing in experienced IT professionals, the UAE can secure a bright future in technology. As more skilled leaders settle in the UAE, the region is ready for exciting growth and progress in tech. The UAE’s push to be a tech leader relies on having the right leaders in place. Experienced IT executives will be essential to make this vision a reality.
by Craig Ashmole, Managing Director, Straightalking Consulting.
Having spent the majority of my career working with and supporting the Corporate CIO Function, I now seek to provide a forum whereby CIOs or IT Directors can learn from the experience of others to address the burning need to change the way we all work post the COVID Pandemic.
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