UAE's Global Talent Attraction Committee Unveils Plans To Enhance Appeal For World-Class Professionals

The Global Talent Attraction and Retention Committee, led by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, convened to discuss the second phase of the National Talent Attraction and Retention Strategy for 2024-2027. This phase involves initiatives across federal, local, and private sectors to attract professionals in key economic areas. The strategy aims to position the UAE as a hub for exceptional talent through global campaigns and international events.

Al Zeyoudi highlighted that these initiatives are designed to enhance the UAE's standing in global talent competitiveness rankings. The goal is to establish the country as a preferred destination for talented individuals, particularly in future-oriented strategic sectors. He emphasized the importance of creating an environment that fosters long-term retention by nurturing a sense of belonging and offering growth opportunities.

The committee's efforts align with the "We are the UAE 2031" vision, which seeks to boost the nation's global competitiveness as a knowledge and innovation hub. This vision supports high-growth companies in attracting top talent to contribute to building a sustainable economy. The meeting saw members exchanging ideas on new projects and discussing global trends in talent attraction.

According to the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) Global Talent Competitiveness Report 2024, the UAE ranked 17th globally and first in the Arab world, surpassing several developed economies. It improved its position by five places from 2023. Additionally, it advanced to 12th place in the "Gravity" Index and secured 2nd place globally in the "Readiness" Index.

The committee comprises representatives from various ministries and government bodies, including Human Resources and Emiratisation, Education, Higher Education and Scientific Research, Community Empowerment, Culture, Identity and Citizenship Authority, Competitiveness Center, Abu Dhabi Residents Office, Dubai Economy and Tourism Department, Emirates Scientists Council, and Emirates Council for Artificial Intelligence.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi praised the collaborative spirit among committee members working towards this national strategy. He noted that new initiatives discussed will help attract more talent in targeted sectors. These efforts aim to place the UAE among the top ten global destinations for talent attraction by 2031.

National Priorities Under Strategy

The UAE Cabinet approved this strategy's second phase at the start of 2025. It focuses on enhancing talent competitiveness within the UAE while promoting it as a business destination. Key priorities include fostering a sense of belonging among global talents and ensuring their future stability within targeted sectors like technology, renewable energy, healthcare, logistics, aviation, advanced industries, financial services, food technology, water technology, and creative economy.

Al Zeyoudi mentioned that progress in attracting talent reflects leadership's forward-thinking vision. Continuous directives emphasize making the UAE an attractive destination for global talent to drive sustainable economic growth.

This meeting is part of ongoing efforts by ministries and agencies to achieve national goals under "We are the UAE 2031." By enhancing competitiveness as an innovation hub with high-growth potential companies can draw bright minds contributing towards building a prosperous future economy.

With inputs from WAM