UAE IT Recruitment Trends of 2024

05.02.2024

'Mirror, mirror on the wall, what IT recruitment trends can we anticipate in 2024?' Wouldn't it be nice to use magic to learn the future? However, the future of IT recruitment isn't a matter of magic; it's about understanding emerging trends and adapting accordingly. Who owns the information owns the world. ;)

As an international IT recruitment agency, we constantly follow the trends within the IT market. Today, we offer a glimpse into the future, exploring the trends that will shape the UAE's tech landscape in 2024.

Market overview: current situation

Before delving into the trends that will shape IT recruitment in 2024, let's take a moment to examine the characteristics of today's market.

Shift in Specialists' Priorities

The tech market in the UAE is witnessing a shift in specialists' priorities, favouring stability over salary increments, influenced by global crises and the UAE's growing appeal as a regional hub.

Rise in Recruitment Activities

Recruitment activities are on the rise due to expanding business opportunities, with multinational corporations strategically establishing themselves in Dubai, leading to increased demand for highly skilled professionals.

Our CEO, Tatiana Melnichuk, has shared insights on how to open an office in Dubai.

Government-backed Initiatives for Startups

Government-backed initiatives are fostering the growth of startup enterprises, creating a greater need for specialised talent and offering numerous opportunities for professionals to contribute expertise and innovation.

Learn more about the startup ecosystem in Dubai.

Resurgence of Office-based Work Culture

Office-based work culture is resurgent. According to Robert Half's research, specialists spend an average of one day a week working remotely. Unlike in the United States, the UAE workforce seems willing to trade flexibility for the allure of Dubai's luxurious lifestyle.

These points will influence and shape the UAE market, setting the stage for the evolving landscape of IT recruitment in 2024.

Trends for 2024

Now that we've covered the current market landscape – let's explore the anticipated trends for the UAE's tech market in 2024:

Trend #1: Wage Plateau

The outlook for IT salaries in the UAE in 2024 predicts stability rather than significant growth. The region's increasing attractiveness may lead to an influx of specialists, potentially reducing competition and limiting the need for substantial salary increments. Companies are likely to maintain existing salary structures to sustain stability in a competitive market.

Trend #2: Growing need for Specialised positions

2024 will likely see a surge in demand for specialised roles like Head of IT, CTOs, and project managers. With many businesses planning local branches, the need for individuals skilled in office setup and regional business development will intensify. It highlights the importance of seasoned professionals capable of managing business expansions in the UAE.

Trend #3: Key IT Position Demand

In-demand roles for 2024 include Python, Java, and other backend developers, as well as frontend developers and QA engineers. The growing IT market in the UAE will drive the need for a diverse range of specialists, particularly at middle to senior levels. It emphasises the importance of varied technical expertise to meet the region's evolving project requirements.

Trend #4: Startup Boom & Specialised Expertise

The thriving startup ecosystem, especially in the crypto and blockchain sectors, will increase the demand for web-3, blockchain, and managerial roles like CTOs and CIOs. The projected growth of startups underscores the need for specialists familiar with emerging technologies and strategic leadership, positioning the UAE as a hub for innovative ventures.

Trend #5: Remote Work Decrease

Remote work opportunities may become less prevalent in job listings for 2024. However, the allure of Dubai is expected to attract expatriates willing to trade remote work flexibility for the opportunity to relocate. This cultural shift reflects a preference for the Dubai lifestyle over remote work options, potentially influencing expatriate decisions to be physically present in the region.

Trend #6: Diminishing Perks and Benefits

Changes in perks and benefits, such as reduced childcare coverage, might align with stable salaries and reduced competition for IT specialists in the UAE in 2024. Organisations may adjust benefit offerings due to global circumstances, potentially reducing the need for additional incentives to attract talent within the region.

Navigating the 2024 Tech Landscape: Strategic Approaches for Employers

Managing the upcoming changes in the tech market may present challenges, but we're here to offer valuable advice and strategic approaches to help you adapt and thrive.

Grow Your Own Talents

The requirement for specialised positions such as Head of IT, CTOs, and Project managers will only grow. So instead of searching from the outside, start by investing resources to develop talents within your organisation – it might be training programmes or promotions. Also, try to implement training initiatives to hone the leadership skills of your employees.

No one-size-fits-all Approach

Enhance your recruitment strategies to hit two targets with one arrow: you can attract future candidates and retain employees. What can be done? Offer competitive benefits, highlight the growth opportunities, and cultivate vibrant work environments that appeal to top-notch talent.

Support Relocation

Prepare for the transition from remote work by promoting and facilitating relocation to Dubai. Highlight the region's attractions and lifestyle, aligning them with the company's values to appeal to top talent open to relocating.

Learn more about visa and immigration requirements for IT professionals.

Offer Benefits

Tailor benefit packages to address changing employee preferences and requirements. Find an equilibrium between monetary perks and non-financial incentives like flexible working schedules, fields for professional growth, and well-being initiatives.

Invest resources into Employer Branding

Allocate resources towards employer branding to elevate the company's attractiveness. Showcase a forward-thinking work environment, an innovative and inclusive culture, and a dedication to fostering employee development and wellness.

Delegate to Professionals

If you encounter obstacles while recruiting, consider reaching out for external assistance. You can always collaborate with IT recruitment agencies or freelance recruiters to improve your hiring game. Professionals possess deep expertise and proficiency and network to navigate intricate recruitment demands, guaranteeing access to a varied pool of adept professionals.

Discover how IT recruitment agencies work.

We hope this guidance and insights will help you navigate the dynamic IT landscape and attract top-notch talent within an exceptionally competitive market.

If you are looking to hire IT specialists in Dubai (or anywhere in the world), contact Lucky Hunter. We can assist you in filling standard positions and finding top-notch professionals for executive roles. Fill out the form, and we will schedule a meeting to discuss your case.

Alexandra Godunova

Content Manager at Lucky Hunter

Focusing on a diverse range of topics including talent acquisition strategies, employer branding, workplace culture, leadership development, and industry trends. With her extensive knowledge, she delivers engaging content that helps businesses thrive in the competitive landscape of today's job market.