79% of professionals in the MENA region anticipate technological advances to redefine the future of work 

The survey showcases a region that is positive about its professional future, with 80% of the respondent’s expressing confidence in the future of work and achieving success despite the rapidly changing job landscape, and less than 20% feeling uncertain about the future. The confidence is stronger within the GCC markets, highlighting a positive outlook for upcoming opportunities and career progressions.

Ola Haddad, General Manager at Bayt.com, said: “At Bayt.com, we are dedicated to understanding the dynamic needs of the job market and the professionals within the MENA region. Our extensive database of over 52 million job seekers was instrumental in conducting this research, and the results of this survey reveal a positive outlook among the workforce and underscore the growing importance of soft skills and hard skills, in addition to the anticipated shift in future recruitment processes”

The demand for certain professions, including software engineers (79%), healthcare professionals (74%), and electrical engineers (73%), is predicted to rise significantly. Conversely, traditional roles such as copywriters and journalists may see diminished demand.

In an era where skill requirements are perpetually in flux, the study identifies critical competencies deemed necessary by professionals. Today, time management (97%), communication (96%), teamwork, and technology/computer skills (both at 95%) stand out as essential. Looking a decade ahead, the anticipation shifts slightly with technology/computer skills (93%), strategic vision (91%), time management, communication, and creative thinking (all three at 90%) earmarked as vital for future success. Nearly equal numbers foresee a future where both technical and soft skills maintain equal importance, particularly in North Africa.

The Evolving Landscape of Job Recruitment

Digital transformation is influencing recruitment processes, with online job sites such as Bayt.com (46%) and company websites (45%) currently being utilized as primary channels for talent sourcing. Furthermore, an overwhelming 80% of recruiters anticipate changes in these processes in the future, reflecting a dynamic shift in recruitment strategies. Significantly, 65% of industry experts predict that online recruitment will become a key facilitator, vastly improving efficiency compared to traditional methods. 

Notably, 60% of employees currently participate in the hiring processes within their organizations, indicating a broad-based involvement in recruitment activities. Recruitment practices are also under transformation, with previous job experience (91%) and CV and cover letter presentation (85%) considered crucial in current hiring decisions. This trend is expected to continue, accompanied by an increased emphasis on cultural fit (79%) and CV presentation (79%).

Maintaining a compelling employer brand has emerged as a pivotal focus for 91% of recruiters, highlighting its importance in attracting top talent. Future job-seeking avenues are anticipated to lean heavily on online job boards, career websites, and professional networks, each regarded by 62% of respondents as reliable resources for future employment opportunities.

The data underscores the necessity for adaptability and technological proficiency in navigating the evolving employment landscape. 79% acknowledge the significant role of technology in reshaping work, while economic (47%), political (44%), and socio-cultural (41%) factors are also identified as vital influencers on job dynamics. 

Zafar Shah, Account Director at YouGov said: "The survey unveils a paradigm shift within the MENA job market, highlighting a robust optimism among professionals and a clear roadmap for future workforce trends. As we navigate the complexities of the modern employment landscape, the results serve as a pivotal resource for employers and job seekers, aiming to foster a more efficient, inclusive, and adaptive job market.”

Data for the Future of Work in MENA 2024 was collected online from May 30 to June 13, 2024. Results are based on a sample of 738 respondents from the following countries: UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Sudan, and others.