A new report titled “UAE Skills Pulse 2025” by the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation has found that 6 out of the 10 most in-demand job skills in the UAE are human skills. These include communication, leadership, problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability—highlighting the country’s emphasis on a human-driven future, even in a high-tech era.
A Data-Driven Look at Skills Demand
The report, developed in collaboration with global firm Cornerstone and supported by the Masar Al Ghurair platform for career pathways, marks the first comprehensive national analysis of talent development in the context of AI and sustainability-driven economies.
According to data powered by SkyHive, a labor market intelligence platform, 59% of the skills required in the UAE job market are human-centric, while only 41% are technical. This insight aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision: technology is a tool, but humans remain the true enablers of progress.
Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar, CEO of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, emphasized that while technology is vital, it’s human capability—particularly adaptability and purpose-driven thinking—that provides the UAE with a competitive edge.
“Technology alone isn’t enough,” she noted. “The human element—our ability to adapt, lead, and collaborate—is irreplaceable.”
Despite a staggering 483% increase in AI-related certifications over just two years, the report notes that only 2.1% of job seekers are actively pursuing skills related to sustainability, revealing an area that requires urgent attention.
Moreover, employers in the UAE reportedly prioritize communication and analytical skills 2.5 times more than what is currently demonstrated by Gen Z talent—pointing to a pressing skills gap.
Bridging the Gap with Strategic Platforms
The findings also reinforce the value of the Masar Al Ghurair platform, which connects over 45,000 young Emiratis with skills-based job opportunities and training pathways. It plays a crucial role in aligning educational output with labor market needs, especially in future-focused industries.
Dr. Yousef Al Assaf, President of Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai, stressed that success in the modern workforce isn’t about AI alone—it’s about how intelligently people use it.
Similarly, Professor Saeed Al Dhaheri, Director of the Center for Future Studies at the University of Dubai, warned that over-focusing on technical skills can create a disconnect between graduates and employers. He advocated for integrating soft skills like communication and analytical thinking into academic curricula alongside AI education.
Mohammad Baqer, Vice Chairman and CEO of GMG, echoed these sentiments, adding that while technical skills can be acquired quickly, human skills take time and experience to master. He emphasized that the UAE offers abundant opportunities for professionals who possess the right mix of soft and technical skills.
Key Human Skills Employers Seek in the UAE:
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Communication
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Leadership
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Problem-solving
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Critical thinking
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Teamwork
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Adaptability
