The Age of Unretirement: How the GCC Workforce is Changing

The traditional retirement age is on the decline in the GCC. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, the average retirement age has been steadily decreasing since the 1990s, and it is now around 60. And according to a recent study by Bayt.com, a leading job portal in the Middle East, one in four GCC nationals over the age of 60 is now working.

This trend is being called "unretirement," and it is having a significant impact on the workforce in the GCC. For businesses, it means that they have access to a larger pool of experienced and skilled workers. For older workers, it means that they can continue to be productive and engaged in their careers.

There are many benefits to having an age-diverse workforce in the GCC. For one, it can lead to increased innovation. When people of different ages and backgrounds work together, they bring different perspectives to the table. This can lead to new ideas and solutions that wouldn't have been possible otherwise.

An age-diverse workforce can also lead to improved employee retention. Older workers are more likely to stay with a company for longer periods of time, which can help to reduce turnover costs. They are also more likely to be loyal to their employers, which can lead to a more positive work environment.

Of course, there are some challenges associated with unretirement in the GCC. For one, it can be difficult for older workers to keep up with the latest technological advances. However, there are many resources available to help them stay up-to-date, such as online courses and workshops.

Another challenge is that older workers may not be as flexible as younger workers. They may be less willing to travel or work long hours. However, there are many ways to accommodate these needs, such as offering telecommuting options or flexible work arrangements.

Overall, the benefits of unretirement and an age-diverse workforce outweigh the challenges. Businesses in the GCC that embrace these trends will be better positioned to succeed in the years to come.

"An age-diverse workforce can lead to increased productivity, improved decision-making, and a more positive work environment." - The Executive Council of Dubai

Here are some examples of companies that are successfully embracing unretirement and an age-diverse workforce in the GCC:

• Emirates Airlines:?The airline has a program called "Second Careers" that helps older workers find new jobs.
• Dubai Municipality:?The municipality has a program called "Returnships" that helps experienced professionals re-enter the workforce.
• Google:?The search engine giant has a policy of not asking job applicants their age.

The bottom line is that the rise of unretirement is a positive trend for businesses and workers alike in the GCC. By embracing an age-diverse workforce, businesses can reap the benefits of increased innovation, productivity, and employee retention.