Overseas candidates looking to work in Dubai anticipate salaries that exceed the market rate, according to new research by recruitment consultancy Robert Half UAE.
The survey indicates that four in 10 (39 percent) overseas candidates have expectations for remuneration that surpass market conditions.
James Sayer, director of Robert Half UAE, said:“While the Dubai job market is showing strong signs of momentum, with increased salary and bonuses for existing employees, it is important for overseas candidates to develop a thorough understanding of prevailing market conditions before orchestrating such a significant move.”
While nearly half (49 percent) of human resource directors said they believe that the number of overseas candidates has remained the same, one third (34 percent) feel that the number of expats decreased, citing lower compensation and tougher immigration regulations as the primary reasons, at 62 percent and 12 percent respectively.
However 16 percent of respondents said that the number of expats has increased over the last three years, citing higher overall remuneration at 25 percent, the Eurozone crisis at 25 percent, lifestyle at 17 percent and local talent shortage at 17 percent as key factors.
Sayer added: “While opinions differ on the prevalence of overseas recruitment, what remains is the fact that Dubai is a major international city and we are competing on a global stage for the world’s most talented professionals.
“It is important for companies to provide attractive compensation and benefits packages that will not only entice candidates to consider Dubai as a great place to advance one’s career but also showcase the opportunities and lifestyle that make it a great place to call home.”
In April, a survey by Towers Watson Middle East said companies in the UAE plan to increase employee salaries by about five percent this year.
Its Salary Budget Planning Report for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) said salaries for UAE employees were likely to rise by about three percent above the rate of inflation.
It added that employees in Saudi Arabia will see the highest increases at six percent against an inflation rate for 2012 of 4.1 percent.
Towers Watson also said salary increases are expected to be consistent across the remaining Gulf States at between five and 5.5 percent.
