As we look to the future, opinions vary widely on how automation and AI will reshape the job market. It's important for us to understand what role these technologies will play in creating or displacing employment opportunities, and get a clearer view of which skills will be essential as we progress, and take into consideration how hiring processes may adapt to these technological changes.

To address this critical topic, Bayt.com conducted the 'Future of Work in the MENA' survey which aims to highlight the key skills to acquire over the next decade, the significant changes driven by technology, and the future of the job market in the region.

Key Findings:

• Over half the respondents (50%) feel confident about the future of work and believe they will be successful. More than 3 in 10 respondents are excited about the future and see a world full of possibilities.
• Technology/ computer skills (93%), Strategic Vision (91%), Time Management, Communication and Creative Thinking (all three at 90%) are the top skills that are expected to be more important in 10 years.
• Respondents believe that the demand for software engineers (79%), doctors/ physicians (74%), Electrical Engineer, Other healthcare/medical practitioner and Director/ Head of departments (all three at 73%) is likely to increase in the future.
• More than 7 in 10 respondents believe that technological factors will play a role in the change in nature of work in the future.
• 65% believe that in the future, online recruitment will greatly facilitate the recruiting process as compared to traditional methods.

Data for the Future of Work in the MENA 2024 survey was collected online between 30th May – 13th June 2024. The results are based on a sample of 738 respondents from the following countries: UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Sudan, among others.