Skilled Workers Gain Ground as Abu Dhabi's Private Sector Adds Jobs

Abu Dhabi's private sector workforce grew 2.5 percent in the first quarter of 2026, according to Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation figures reported by Gulf News. Skilled workers rose 1.5 percent and registered companies increased 0.4 percent during the same period.

The expansion occurs as the UAE net employment outlook for the third quarter of 2026 eased to 17 percent amid geopolitical uncertainty. Information services posted a 31 percent outlook, while sales and marketing roles also showed strength. Abu Dhabi and Dubai continue to host the largest share of multinational companies and sovereign-backed entities such as ADQ and Mubadala.

Sectors Posting the Strongest Demand

Construction, technology, energy, financial services including those at Abu Dhabi Global Market, and AI and data roles lead hiring in Abu Dhabi this year. Infrastructure projects and sovereign capital deployment underpin activity in these areas. New business licences in the emirate rose 21 percent in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, with professional and commercial sectors contributing to the increase.

Hub71, the global tech ecosystem based in Abu Dhabi Global Market, has onboarded more than 315 startups from 54 countries that have raised over $1.5 billion as of 2024. The ecosystem generated $4.2 billion in value between 2021 and 2023 at a 28 percent compound annual growth rate, with fintech, climatetech and Web3 among the active segments.

Shortages Limit How Many Roles Get Filled

Seventy-five percent of UAE employers report difficulty filling positions, mainly because of gaps in AI literacy, IT, data, engineering and sustainability skills. Nearly 40 percent of employers prefer candidates with prior UAE experience, especially in construction and real estate. This pattern means openings concentrate among applicants who already hold those qualifications or local track records.

Aldar Properties has committed $1.4 billion to new office, retail and hospitality assets on Al Maryah, Yas and Saadiyat Islands by 2027, while Aldar and Mubadala began work on One Maryah Place, a two-tower project adding 98,000 square metres of Grade A office space. These developments sustain demand for engineering and project roles in the capital.

Candidates with targeted skills can monitor openings through platforms that list roles at ADGM-licensed firms and sovereign investment vehicles. Employers facing persistent shortages continue to adjust requirements around demonstrated expertise rather than broad experience alone.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.