The UAE Salary Guide 2027 reveals that 77% of professionals do not see generative AI as a long-term career threat, while 78% remain open to new jobs and workplace flexibility becomes increasingly important.
DUBAI: The UAE Salary Guide 2027, launched by recruitment specialist Michael Page on October 27, 2026, reveals a workforce that is largely unconcerned about artificial intelligence replacing jobs. Only 23% of professionals consider generative AI a threat to their long-term career prospects, meaning 77% do not share that concern.
The findings suggest that many UAE professionals are approaching technological change with greater confidence, even as businesses worldwide adapt to artificial intelligence. However, not viewing AI as a threat does not necessarily mean employees feel fully prepared for its impact.
Why are UAE professionals less worried about AI?
The research points to changing workplace priorities, with employees increasingly focused on career development, learning opportunities and long-term professional value.
Rather than concentrating solely on job security, professionals are considering how emerging technologies could reshape their responsibilities and future opportunities.
For employers, this creates an opportunity to support employees through training, digital skills development and clearer career progression pathways.
UAE job market sees strong employee mobility
Beyond artificial intelligence, the UAE Salary Guide 2027 highlights a competitive employment market where attracting and retaining experienced professionals remains challenging.
According to the report, 78% of professionals are open to changing roles, suggesting that employers cannot rely on existing employees remaining with their organisations.
Workplace flexibility is another major consideration. Some 51% of professionals say they would be more likely to consider leaving their employer if required to spend additional time in the office.
These findings underline the importance of flexible working arrangements, career development and competitive compensation in employee retention strategies.
What does the 2027 salary report reveal?
Michael Page’s latest guide provides salary benchmarks for more than 500 roles across 18 sectors, helping employers and jobseekers understand changing market expectations.
It includes salary comparisons based on experience and company size, alongside insights into recruitment trends, in-demand skills and workforce planning.
The report also indicates that employee salary expectations continue to exceed many organisations’ salary review budgets, creating additional pressure on businesses competing for skilled professionals.
Jon Ede, Managing Director of Michael Page Middle East, said the UAE continues to demonstrate resilience despite geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty.
He highlighted sustained demand for specialist skills and growing employer attention to professional development, flexibility and long-term career value.
Impact to expect
The UAE Salary Guide 2027 suggests that employers may need to invest more in employee development, competitive salaries and flexible working policies to retain skilled workers. For professionals, stronger digital capabilities and continuous learning could become increasingly valuable as artificial intelligence changes workplace responsibilities.
The findings offer an important indication of how UAE employment expectations could evolve during 2027, with technology adoption and employee retention becoming closely connected priorities.
The full report is available through the official Michael Page UAE Salary Guide.
