Page 297 - RUYA CAREERS PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2025 (English)

9/24/25, 11:39 AM Young Emiratis in high demand in private sector but government job security still a draw | The National
Young Emiratis in high demand in private sector but

government job security still a draw

Companies note more enthusiasm from jobseekers but pull of public sector remains

Ali Al Shouk
Xander Christou
September 23, 2025

Emirati employees are becoming increasingly drawn to careers in the private sector, with the potential for
growth an important factor, industry insiders have told The National.

Thousands flocked to Dubai World Trade Centre for the Ru'ya Careers Fair, in which 180 companies in
the private and public sectors took part.

Eman Al Bastaki, group head of Emiratisation and government relations at AW Rostamani Group, said
private companies face stiff competition to attract young Emiratis.

“There is huge competition between companies. We have to attract them with positions and good
salaries,” Ms Al Bastaki told The National.

“Their mentality is more open now and they are willing to be part of the private sector.”

Keen on progression
Ms Al Bastaki said Emiratis want a clear idea of their prospective employer's vision.

“We have to keep their passion in their jobs and give them a clear plan of their future,” she said. “A

comfortable work environment is a tool to attract them.

“If they feel there is any negligence by the company, then they will search for a job in another company.
The challenge is how to keep them working in the company for many years.”

More Emiratis than ever want to work in the private sector, she added, noting the role that the government
has played in this drive.

“Emiratis are more aware of the importance of the private sector,” she added. “The prospect of career
growth in the private sector is what's attracting young jobseekers.”

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