A recent survey by an online CV-maker company has unveiled a growing trend among younger workers, particularly Gen Z. According to the survey, 55% of Gen Z respondents in the UK expressed that they would be willing to accept a lower salary in exchange for the ability to work remotely. This shift in employment preferences is not confined to the UK and is now making its way to the UAE, a country where businesses are adapting to changing work expectations.
Nikhil Nanda, director at Innovations Group, a Dubai-based company, shared his insights with Khaleej Times on how the UAE’s workforce is adjusting to these changes. He noted that each new generation brings a shift in priorities, and Gen Z is no different. Growing up in more financially stable households, Gen Z workers are not as driven by immediate financial gain as previous generations. Instead, they place greater emphasis on work-life balance, flexibility, and job satisfaction.
For Gen Z, career choices often prioritize time management and personal projects over higher salaries. Many of them value the opportunity to balance their careers with side projects, investments, or creative endeavors. This generation understands that a supportive work environment can provide the stability needed to pursue these additional income streams. 
The trend towards flexible work arrangements, particularly remote work, is gaining momentum in the UAE. Remote work, once considered a luxury or perk, is increasingly becoming a priority for many employees, especially in roles that do not require constant in-person collaboration. Companies that understand and respond to these expectations will have a competitive advantage in attracting Gen Z talent.
The push for remote work is also influenced by practical factors, such as the rising costs associated with commuting in the UAE. Dubai’s traffic congestion, combined with the added expense of Salik tolls, has led many employees to seek more flexible work arrangements that can reduce the burden of daily travel.
As a result, many companies are beginning to adjust their compensation strategies to account for the cost savings and productivity benefits that remote work offers. However, this shift is highly dependent on the industry, with some sectors being more suited to remote work than others.
Ali Sharif, CEO of ProGlobal, highlighted that remote work is ultimately about enhancing productivity and improving work-life balance. For employees commuting from distant locations or other emirates, working remotely can save up to 40 hours a month, which they can then invest in their work and personal lives. Sharif emphasized that remote work allows for significant financial savings, such as reduced fuel and commuting costs, which can increase employees’ take-home pay.
Looking ahead, Nanda predicts that hybrid work models will become more common in the UAE. These models combine the benefits of remote work with the need for in-person collaboration. For roles that benefit from remote work, employees will have the flexibility to work from home, while still maintaining in-office days for tasks that require team collaboration or oversight.
For Gen Z, a generation known for their digital fluency and desire for autonomy, remote work will likely continue to push businesses to innovate their workplace structures. Companies that embrace this shift and proactively implement flexible work models will stand out as forward-thinking employers.
The UAE’s labor market is expected to transform significantly in the coming years. The government has already introduced several labor policies, visa programs, and legal frameworks designed to facilitate flexible working arrangements while ensuring regulatory compliance. As remote work expands, businesses that adopt hybrid work models and formalize remote employment policies will likely benefit from a broader talent pool, higher employee retention, and improved operational efficiency. Conversely, companies that resist these changes may struggle to attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive market.
