Dubai, long known for its rapid development, vibrant job market and future-forward mindset, is now at the forefront of another global transformation—the rise of artificial intelligence. As AI technologies become increasingly integrated across all sectors, the emirate’s job market is undergoing a profound shift.
Global trends like automation, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and green energy are reshaping the global job market and demand for key skills and shifting employer priorities are triggering a revolution. As industries evolve, new roles in AI, robotics, green energy and data analytics are emerging.
And while automation promises increased efficiency and innovation, it also raises pressing questions about which job roles will thrive and which may become left behind. This article explores how AI is reshaping the employment landscape in Dubai, the sectors most affected and the new types of jobs likely to emerge in this fast-evolving economy.
Why Dubai?
AI in Dubai and the UAE marks a significant shift, influencing various sectors. This evolution is highlighted by initiatives like the UAE Artificial Intelligence Program, which underscores the nation’s commitment to embedding AI across industries such as healthcare and finance. These efforts demonstrate the UAE’s dedication to becoming a leader in AI and boosting the economy, with PwC estimating the AI growth rate ranging from 20 to 34 percent, projecting a potential impact of $320 billion by 2030.
This ambitious integration of AI showcases the nation’s strategy to enhance efficiency, spur economic growth and solidify its position on the global AI stage. In Dubai, the adoption of AI is among the fastest globally, with technology becoming a cornerstone of its economy. The city is home to various smart initiatives and government programs aimed at fostering AI innovation.
The swift adoption of this technology is reshaping the job landscape in the UAE, marking a pivotal shift in various sectors. With 60 percent of Middle Eastern professionals concerned about AI replacing their jobs, the urgency for workforce adaptation is evident.
This transformation is seen across industries such as healthcare, where AI enhances disease diagnosis, and finance, which elevates customer service and fraud detection capabilities.
Jobs on the rise: Emerging roles in an AI-driven economy
According to the Jobs of the Future report, launched by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), several jobs that are set to increase in demand over the next three years including AI/ML specialists, sustainability specialists, autonomous and EV specialists and data analysts and scientists.
Other jobs on the rise in Dubai’s market include robotics engineers, information security analysts, fintech engineers, big data specialists and digital transformation specialists.
However, some traditional jobs will not be impacted by global tech trends, including teachers, nurses, lawyers, skilled technicians, mental health professionals, doctors, traditional engineers, pharmacists and security personnel. While these traditional jobs will be maintained, they rely on accumulated skills and require upskilling programs based on industry demand.
At-risk sectors: Jobs likely to be replaced or reimagined
As Dubai accelerates its embrace of AI and digital transformation, several traditional job roles are poised for significant disruption. Occupations that rely heavily on routine tasks and manual data processing are particularly vulnerable. These include bank tellers, postal service clerks, administrative and executive secretaries, cashiers and telemarketers—roles that can be increasingly automated through AI-powered chatbots, self-service systems and digital workflows.
Data entry clerks, material-recording and stock-keeping clerks, and jobs in accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll functions are also expected to see declining demand in Dubai, as advanced software takes over repetitive functions with greater speed and accuracy.
Even legal officials, once considered relatively insulated, may face change as AI tools streamline document review and case preparation. While these roles may not disappear entirely, they will likely be reimagined, requiring workers to adapt by acquiring new digital and analytical skills to stay relevant in the evolving workforce.
The workforce sentiment: Opportunity meets anxiety
A study suggests that by 2030, AI could contribute around $15.7 trillion to the global economy. But the World Economic Forum (WEF) cautioned that over the next five years, about 23 percent of jobs could be disrupted due to technologies like AI. Based on the WEF’s Future of Jobs report, 75 percent of surveyed companies are likely to incorporate AI in their workplaces. Approximately half of them anticipate the creation of new jobs, while only 25 percent foresee potential job losses.
The impact of AI in the Middle East will be substantial, with the region projected to generate a staggering $320 billion in economic value from AI by 2030. Leading the way in AI contribution is Saudi Arabia, with an expected input of over $135.2 billion in economic value by 2030. The UAE follows with a projected contribution of $96 billion. Furthermore, the region is expected to experience annual AI contribution growth ranging between 20 and 34 percent across various sectors.
A BCG survey reveals that in the Middle East, respondents are more optimistic about AI than the global average: 78 percent believe the rewards of generative AI outweigh the risks. At the same time, ME respondents were much more likely to predict that AI will result in large shifts in the job market. 84 percent of respondents believe that their jobs will most likely be transformed by AI while a striking 60 percent believe that their jobs are likely to no longer exist due to AI. Slightly below the global average, yet on par with the general consensus of the survey, 76 percent of ME respondents exhibited AI-related regulations be necessary.
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Navigating the shift: How dubai can prepare Its workforce
To harness the full potential of AI while minimizing job displacement, Dubai must prioritize large-scale workforce transformation. This includes investing in upskilling and reskilling programs that equip employees with the digital, analytical and soft skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy. Government-led initiatives, such as the UAE’s National Program for Coders, are already paving the way by promoting digital literacy and preparing youth and professionals for future-ready careers.
Meanwhile, partnerships between the public and private sectors will be essential to align training with actual market demand.
According to the Jobs of the Future report, student career preferences in Dubai are not aligned with global career fields. In addition, the majority of Emiratis are specializing in degrees that don’t align with in-demand and emerging job roles. Notably, 82 percent of students believe that technology will have an impact on their future. This presents an opportunity for Dubai’s k-12 education system.
Therefore, educational institutions must also adapt, embedding AI, data science and emerging tech into curricula to future-proof graduates. By proactively addressing the skills gap and promoting continuous learning, Dubai can build a resilient workforce capable of navigating the rapid changes brought on by artificial intelligence.
