UAE: Why Are Rising Costs Prompting Employees to Consider Quitting?

In the UAE, a significant number of employees are contemplating leaving their jobs, driven primarily by the escalating cost of living.
A recent study by Korn Ferry reveals that nearly 70% of employees feel that their salaries are not keeping pace with rising expenses, leading to a growing sense of dissatisfaction.
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As the cost of essentials like housing and education continues to surge, many workers are placing greater importance on their overall compensation packages.
Vijay Gandhi, regional director of Korn Ferry Digital for EMEA, noted that employees are increasingly prioritizing benefits and pay when evaluating job opportunities.
“Salaries haven’t kept pace with rising expenses, making compensation a key reason for leaving,” he explained.

The Korn Ferry Workforce 2025 report indicates that 80% of employees in the UAE are open to changing jobs for better pay and job security.
In addition to salary, factors such as employee benefits and growth opportunities are pivotal in their decision-making process.
Despite an average salary increase of just 4% reported in Korn Ferry’s 2024 UAE Salary survey, many employees are still feeling the pinch.
The Hays GCC Salary Guide 2025 noted that while nearly half of UAE employees received a salary hike in 2024, most increments fell between 2.5% to 5%.
With expatriates projected to make up 88.5% of the UAE’s population by 2025, the competitive job market is further complicated by rising living costs.
Korn Ferry emphasizes that the growing expat community is crucial for economic momentum, yet this demographic is increasingly focused on achieving stability in their careers.
As professionals navigate these challenges, the need for fair compensation and robust benefits is more critical than ever.
The landscape of employment in the UAE is shifting, and companies must adapt to retain talent amidst these economic pressures.
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