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BUILDING THE WORKFORCE OF TOMORROW

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Exclusive interview with Ravi Jethwani, CEO, Innovations Global

As the UAE enters the second half of 2026, how would you assess the current state of the job market? What key trends are shaping recruitment today?

The UAE job market remains fundamentally resilient, although it has become more selective. Regional uncertainty created some short-term caution among employers, particularly around the middle of the year, but this has not changed the underlying attractiveness of the UAE as a business and employment hub. Recruiters are already expecting hiring activity to strengthen as companies restart recruitment plans that were temporarily paused.

Despite recent regional uncertainties, hiring activity appears to be picking up. What factors are driving this renewed recruitment momentum?

The biggest driver is the UAE’s continued economic diversification. Businesses are investing across technology, financial services, healthcare, real estate, infrastructure, energy and professional services rather than relying on a single economic engine.

Dubai’s Q1 2026 GDP grew 2.4% year-on-year, with particularly strong performances in healthcare, construction, financial services and utilities. 

There is also a significant amount of investment already committed to long-term projects. As business confidence improves, organisations that delayed hiring are likely to revisit those plans.

Dubai has become one of the world’s most attractive employment destinations. What do you believe has contributed to this transformation, and why does it continue to attract global talent?

Dubai has successfully created something that goes beyond simply being a place to work—it has become a global platform for business. 

Its advantages include world-class infrastructure, connectivity, a highly international business environment, a relatively business-friendly regulatory framework and access to markets across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Importantly, Dubai has continuously reinvented itself. It has moved from being primarily associated with trade and real estate to becoming a significant centre for finance, technology, logistics, tourism, healthcare, and professional services and innovation.

Which sectors are expected to lead hiring in the UAE during the second half of 2026, and what roles are currently in highest demand?

I would expect technology and AI, financial services, healthcare, energy and renewables, construction, real estate, logistics, professional services to remain among the strongest areas.

In terms of roles, demand is increasingly concentrated around AI and data professionals, technology specialists, cybersecurity, finance and investment professionals, sales and business development, healthcare specialist, engineering and specialized talent. The important point is that AI is creating demand not only for pure AI specialists, but for people who can combine AI capability with industry expertise

What advice would you give to professionals who are looking to advance their careers or secure new opportunities in the UAE?

My advice would be to be much more strategic about the job search. Don’t simply apply to hundreds of vacancies with the same CV. Understand the industry, identify companies that are expanding and tailor your profile to the requirements of those organisations. Networking is also extremely important in the UAE. Build relationships with recruiters, industry professionals and decision-makers rather than relying entirely on job portals.

Are there any emerging workplace trends—such as flexible work, upskilling, or digital transformation—that will significantly influence the future of work in the UAE?

First is AI enabled work. AI will increasingly become part of everyday workflows rather than a separate technology function.

Second is continuous upskilling. The half-life of skills is becoming shorter, so employers and employees will both have to invest in learning. Third is the evolution of flexible working. I don’t think the future will necessarily be completely remote or completely office-based. Instead, organisations will increasingly adopt hybrid models based on productivity, collaboration and the nature of the role. The UAE has an opportunity to become a leader in this new model because of its young, international and digitally sophisticated workforce.

Looking ahead, what is your outlook for the UAE job market over the next 12 months, and what opportunities do you foresee for employers and job seekers?

I am cautiously optimistic about the next 12 months. I expect recruitment to become progressively more active as businesses move beyond the uncertainty of the first half of 2026 and resume investment and expansion plans. The fundamentals remain strong: economic diversification, infrastructure investment, international capital, population growth and the UAE’s continued positioning as a global business hub.

However, I don’t expect every segment of the market to grow equally. The market will remain selective, and employers will continue to demand stronger productivity and specialised skills.

For employers, the opportunity is to access an increasingly sophisticated global talent pool. For professionals, the opportunity is to build careers in sectors that are expanding rapidly.

Ultimately, I believe the UAE job market is moving from a “jobs market” to a “skills market.” The winners over the next few years will be organisations that can attract and retain the right talent, and professionals who continuously upgrade their skills and demonstrate measurable value.

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Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers: The Perfect Destination for Memorable Events and Celebrations

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Whether you’re planning a dream wedding, an important corporate gathering or a special celebration with loved ones, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers an elegant setting for every occasion. Overlooking the picturesque Dubai Creek, the hotel combines timeless charm, warm hospitality and versatile event spaces with personalized services and thoughtfully curated dining experiences. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the hotel provides a beautiful backdrop for creating unforgettable moments, with dedicated event specialists ensuring every detail is taken care of. Discover some of the best ways to host your next event at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, with tailored packages designed to make every occasion truly special.

1. Say ‘I Do’ by the Creek: Celebrate Your Dream Wedding at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

Every love story deserves a beautiful beginning, and Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers a romantic setting to turn your dream wedding into an unforgettable celebration. With the picturesque Dubai Creek as its backdrop, the hotel brings together timeless elegance, warm hospitality and the charm of a waterfront setting, making it a wonderful choice for couples looking to celebrate their special day in style.

Whether it’s an intimate ceremony surrounded by loved ones or a grand wedding reception, the hotel offers elegant event spaces, thoughtfully curated dining experiences and personalised menus to suit every celebration. What makes the experience even more special is the dedicated events team, who work closely with couples to bring their vision to life, ensuring every detail reflects their unique love story. The festive season adds an extra touch of warmth and magic, creating a beautiful atmosphere for moments worth cherishing.

With wedding packages starting from AED 200 per person, couples can enjoy a thoughtfully curated experience featuring (catering, wedding cake, and other inclusions). The hotel’s Ballroom (venue/ballroom name) can accommodate up to 500 guests, making it a beautiful choice for celebrations of all sizes. Price: From AED 200 per person | Capacity: Up to 500 guests | Package Includes: catering, wedding cake, and other inclusions

2. Where Business Meets Elegance: Host Your Next Corporate Event by Dubai Creek

Great business ideas deserve an inspiring setting, and Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers the perfect blend of professional hospitality, comfort and timeless elegance. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Dubai Creek, the hotel provides a welcoming environment where meaningful conversations, fresh ideas and successful collaborations come to life.

Whether you’re hosting an important boardroom discussion, a large-scale conference, an interactive team workshop or a corporate celebration, the hotel offers versatile meeting spaces designed to suit different business needs. What makes the experience stand out is the personalised approach, with a dedicated events team assisting with every detail, from venue arrangements to thoughtfully curated food and beverage experiences, allowing guests to focus on what truly matters — connecting, collaborating and achieving their goals.

With half-day meeting packages starting from AED 250 per person and full-day packages from AED 300 per person, businesses can enjoy tailored experiences featuring 2 (coffee breaks, lunch, AV equipment, Wi-Fi and other inclusions). The hotel’s Deira meeting rooms can accommodate up to 75 delegates, supported by a dedicated events team to ensure seamless planning and execution. Businesses can also benefit from Marriott Bonvoy Points (corporate group offers or complimentary benefits). Price: Half-day from AED 250 | Full day from AED 300 per person | Capacity: Up to 75 delegates | Package Includes: Up to 2 coffee breaks, lunch, AV equipment, Wi-Fi and other inclusions

3. Celebrate Life’s Special Moments at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

Some moments deserve more than just a celebration they deserve a setting that makes them truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a special anniversary, an intimate family gathering or a stylish private celebration, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers an elegant escape where beautiful memories are made against the charming backdrop of Dubai Creek.

Combining timeless surroundings with warm hospitality, the hotel provides versatile event spaces that can be transformed to reflect the personality and spirit of every occasion. From thoughtfully crafted menus and tailored dining experiences to personalised event arrangements, every detail is designed to make guests feel special. With the support of the hotel’s dedicated Events Booking Centre team, hosts can enjoy their celebrations while the finer details are taken care of, creating an effortless experience from beginning to end.

With private event packages starting from AED 250 per person, guests can create their ideal celebration with personalised menus, entertainment and other inclusions. The hotel’s flexible event spaces can accommodate up to 100 guests, while the dedicated Events Booking Centre team provides personalised planning assistance to ensure every occasion is thoughtfully organised. Price: From AED 250 per person | Capacity: Up to 100 guests

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Celebrate UAE National Day with 15% Off a Creekside Staycation at Sheraton Dubai Creek

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This UAE National Day, treat yourself to a relaxing getaway without leaving Dubai. Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers is offering UAE residents an exclusive 15% discount on its regular half-board rate, valid for stays from 27 November to 6 December 2026, with no minimum stay requirement.

Set along the picturesque Dubai Creek in Deira, the iconic five-star hotel combines timeless elegance with modern comforts. Guests can choose from beautifully appointed Deluxe Rooms with city or Creek views, Club Rooms with exclusive lounge access, and spacious Junior and Executive Suites, offering a comfortable retreat for couples and families alike.

Dining is equally inviting, with Italian flavours at Vivaldi, British favourites at The Chelsea Arms, relaxed poolside dining at By the Bay, and casual refreshments at the Lobby Café. Guests can also unwind by the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at Spa, or make use of the 24-hour fitness centre.

Adding a touch of festive magic, the hotel will be adorned with seasonal decorations throughout the holiday period. Guests staying on 4 December 2026 can also experience the hotel’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Lower Lobby, accompanied by a Christmas choir, creating a memorable start to the festive season.

With the flexibility of no minimum length of stay, guests can plan anything from a spontaneous overnight escape to an extended waterfront retreat. Combining comfortable accommodation, delightful dining experiences and a charming Creekside setting, this exclusive UAE National Day offer is the perfect opportunity to celebrate in style. To enjoy this exclusive UAE residents’ National Day half-board offer, book online using the promotional code ES2.

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Brands For Less Group and EM Normandie Business School partner to develop future retail industry leaders

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Brands For Less (BFL) Group, a leading off-price retailer across the GCC and Southeast Asia, and EM Normandie Business School have announced a strategic partnership to bridge academic learning with real-world business applications within the modern retail industry. The collaboration will run for three years and aims to bring together the commercial experience and market insights of Brands For Less with the academic expertise and international outlook of EM Normandie.

The partnership initiative, which starts immediately and is set to run throughout the 2026-27, 2027-28 and 2028-29 academic years, is designed to complement the academic learning of up to 60 students – 40 undergraduates and 20 postgraduates – across multiple business disciplines, including marketing, finance, digital transformation, innovation, and entrepreneurship. As well as providing practical industry exposure and a better understanding of how business concepts are applied in a real-world environment, students will have the opportunity to engage directly with retail professionals, work on real business challenges, and explore internship and career pathways.

The programme will also support the professional development of BFL employees through tailored executive educational sessions and is built around three pillars:

  • Industry-led academic collaboration

BFL will work closely with EM Normandie’s academic departments to enrich the learning experience with real business context. The Group will contribute industry case studies, business challenges, market insights, and practical perspectives that can be integrated into coursework, research initiatives, and consulting-style projects. The company will also support knowledge-sharing opportunities through engagement with students and faculty, while exploring capstone projects, dissertations, and career prospects for future graduates.

  • Field visits and industry exposure

Brands For Less will welcome EM Normandie students to its facilities for educational visits, accompanied by faculty or school representatives. Aligned with curriculum objectives and learning outcomes, these visits will provide students first-hand insights into the daily operations of a leading off-price retailer. Activities may include operational tours, leadership talks, business presentations, exposure to supply chain and merchandising functions, and discussions around retail strategy, innovation, and customer experience.

  • Tailored executive training

EM Normandie will design a specialised executive training programme around the competency requirements of BFL teams. The programme will be delivered through the school’s Learning Centre located at Dubai Knowledge Park and licensed by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). It will be developed in close consultation with Brands For Less to ensure it addresses the Group’s priorities.

“Developing talent is a strategic priority for the Brands For Less Group and a key component of our long-term growth plans,” said Khaled Arnaout, Chief Operating Officer at BFL Group. “This partnership with EM Normandie enables the Group to play a more active role in shaping future business leaders while creating meaningful opportunities for knowledge exchange, practical learning, and professional development.

“By opening our doors to students, sharing our challenges, and learning from their fresh ideas, we create an environment where knowledge meets practice, as well as developing valuable opportunities for our own people to learn and grow. Developing talent is one of our key performance indicators and a core part of our long-term strategy, so we see this partnership as a two-way learning experience and an investment in both our people and the future leaders who will shape our industry.”

Professor Khaireddine Mouakhar, President of EM Normandie Business School added: “At EM Normandie Business School, we believe that strong industry–academic partnerships are critical to preparing graduates for the challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy. Our commitment goes beyond academic excellence as we strive to equip students with the practical skills, entrepreneurial mindset, and professional competencies that employers value.”

Together, the two organisations aim to prepare future-ready graduates and to equip working professionals with the skills to succeed in a fast-evolving business environment.

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