PwC Middle East Survey uncovers key hurdles in retaining Emirati talent

PwC Middle East Survey uncovers key hurdles in retaining Emirati talent

PwC Middle East has released its first-ever Emiratisation Survey, titled “The Retention Riddle: How to keep Emirati talent in the private sector”, shedding light on the efforts needed to boost Emirati representation in the UAE’s private-sector workforce. The survey, which included 500 nationals working in both the public and private sectors, as well as recent graduates, highlights the need for action to ensure the retention of Emirati talent and support sustained economic development.

One key finding of the survey is that while interest in private-sector employment among younger Emiratis is growing, many nationals ultimately choose to return to the public sector. In fact, two-thirds of Emiratis currently working in private-companies are considering such a move. To address this issue, private sector companies must take additional steps to enhance national talent retention and contribute to the UAE’s national vision of boosting Emirati representation in the private sector.

Khaled Bin Braik, Emiratisation Programme Leader at PwC Middle East, emphasised the importance of collective effort from both the public and private sectors to achieve the UAE’s shared vision and build a sustainable economic future. He called for collaboration to deliver on the ambitious goals of the nation.