9.7 Million UAE Work Permits Issued – Its Significance for Expatriates, Salary Trends, and Competition

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE has announced that it has issued nearly 9.7 million UAE work permits and employment contract renewals in 2025, which not only shows the number but also the activity level of the UAE government in issuing and renewing work permits and visas. It is an indicator of a labour market that is running on all cylinders – and continues to attract skilled people from around the globe.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The total of 9.7 million transactions included about 4.18 million new UAE employment permits, and the rest (5.55 million) were renewals of contracts. In addition, the ministry logged more than 13.3 million total labour transactions, including establishment records, complaints and grievance submissions.

In particular, over 110,000 applications were made to establish a new business, reflecting the fact that growth in employment in the UAE is not only due to existing businesses expanding but to new businesses entering the market too.

What This Means for UAE Expat Jobs

The number of UAE work permits granted in just one year is a testament to the extent to which the UAE remains open to talent from abroad — at least for professionals considering relocating, or those already working here. UAE foreign nationals remain an integral part of industries like technology, finance, construction, healthcare, and retail.

The UAE recruitment statistics indicate that the demand is still on the rise. More than 2.39 million permits were cancelled over this time period, which simply indicates the volatility of a dynamic workforce and is not a withdrawal from hiring. Indeed, this mobility is seen as a positive indicator, as workers switch between jobs, and as UAE private sector employment is being restored rapidly.

UAE Salary Trends: Does More Supply Mean Lower Pay?

With the number of UAE work permits on the rise, a logical question arises: will UAE expat salaries be put under pressure with so many new workers?

Well, that’s their short answer, and it’s complicated. Some areas with high skill demands, notably AI, cyber security, advanced manufacturing and senior finance, are still offering top dollar; however, other sectors with critical skill shortages may see competition via the expanding UAE workforce. The UAE salary trends in these areas have continued to rise, especially for individuals who have sought out certifications that are in demand in the region and possess local experience.

However, if UAE job competition is expected to grow in general and in entry-level and/or more general job positions, one might experience more competition.

The UAE Labor Market in 2026: Competitive but Full of Opportunity

According to UAE work permits 2026 predictions, the trend is likely to continue, encouraged by mega infrastructure projects, the ongoing expansion of free zones and the steady reduction in the reliance on oil revenues by the UAE economy. The UAE labour market is one of the most vibrant in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) area.

This UAE hiring boom is an opportunity for job seekers, but it will require them to differentiate themselves. It would be equally important to update the qualifications, develop network connections, and target sectors that align with Vision 2031 initiatives.

Key Points for Expatriates and Companies

• The fast-growing trend of employment in the UAE is clearly evident in the 9.7 million UAE work permit applications processed in 2025.
• The rise in numbers of newly registered businesses indicates the level of confidence in the private jobs sector of the UAE.
• The UAE expats salary in the high-skills industry remains highly competitive due to the growing labor force.
• The UAE visa update scenario continues to remain flexible and talent-friendly.
• Specialist skills are still the best negotiating chips for UAE jobs for foreigners.

It’s about scale, speed and resilience in the UAE’s labour market in 2025, and the doors are still open to the expat who’s ready for that competition.

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