Multilingual Proficiency: A Competitive Edge in the Middle East

Continuing the conversation from last week’s newsletter on fair pay and employee retention, let’s explore another critical factor shaping the hiring landscape in the Middle East: The power of communication and language.

When I landed in the Middle East in 2013, fresh from the UK, I thought construction was the same everywhere. Spoiler: It’s not. 24 hour shifts, summertime working hours, coaches packed with men in blue jumpsuits, workers without PPE, and someone sleeping in the lift shaft—it was a shock to the system.

Out here, you quickly learn that people are the real drivers of success, and managing them is an art. You’ve got workers from every corner of the globe, speaking different languages and bringing unique skills (and challenges). It’s not just about budgets and blueprints; it’s about patience, adaptability, and building trust—whether it’s with a foreman on-site or a client in a boardroom.

Forget overcomplicating things. Simplicity rules. On-site, it’s not about endless spreadsheets but practical problem-solving. My first site visit? Let’s just say polished shoes don’t mix with dusty scaffolding. But the lesson? Adapt, embrace the differences, and get stuck in. Out here, construction isn’t just about buildings—it’s about connecting with people who make them happen.

I've witnessed significant changes in the industry over the years, driven by a collective shift from the top down to the ground level. The industry today emphasises knowledge sharing, well-being, and a “come to work, go home safely” culture. It’s about valuing workers, fostering trust, and creating safer, more productive environments.

The Language of Success

The construction sector has a truly diverse workforce. You’ve got white-collar professionals from across the globe managing and blue-collar workers—often from South Asia, Africa, or other parts of the world—bringing those plans to life on-site.

A good manager knows the design; a great manager knows the designer and the carpenter.

It’s a humorous take but also painfully true.

Employers in the region are increasingly prioritising interpersonal and communication skills. While a strong grasp of English is often the baseline requirement, proficiency in Arabic, Hindi, Bengali, Malayalam, and Urdu remains a significant advantage. This is especially true when working with government entities, local Saudi firms, construction sites or navigating culturally nuanced business contexts.

The Advantage of Arabic Fluency

In construction across the Middle East, especially when dealing with government entities or local authorities, fluency in Arabic is a major asset. It’s not just about understanding the language—it’s about building trust and respect. For example, being able to engage in even basic Arabic during meetings with Emirati officials or contractors can foster better collaboration and faster decision-making. A simple “Shukran” or “Kaif halak?” can instantly break the ice.

I remember first learning about Wasta, a term deeply rooted in Arab culture, symbolising influence and connections. (It later became the name of one of my most successful startups in the region—a fitting nod to its significance).

Arabic is spoken across over 20 countries, from the Gulf to North Africa, with dialects like Khaliji (Gulf Arabic) and Masri (Egyptian Arabic) often heard on sites. This shared language helps workers from different regions, like an Emirati and an Egyptian, communicate effortlessly and work together more effectively.

While Arabic fluency isn’t essential for every role, especially with English being widely used, making an effort in Arabic can set you apart. It bridges gaps, strengthens relationships, and shows you value the region’s culture—something that’s invaluable in a place where relationships are just as critical as the work itself.

The Advantage of learning dialects from India

It’s no secret that most blue-collar workers in the Middle East come from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Early on in my career, I noticed the cultural and language barrier between site workers and management staff. At first, it felt like there was this invisible divide, but I quickly realised that breaking down those barriers wasn’t just about language—it was about respect and connection.

In today’s construction environment, the focus on respect, safety, and well-being is stronger than ever. Managers who take the time to engage with workers in their own language often see improved communication, reduced misunderstandings, and a safer workplace overall. For instance, explaining safety protocols in a language workers fully understand ensures compliance and reduces risks.

This effort also creates a sense of trust and mutual respect between workers and managers, transforming the dynamic from “us versus them” into a unified team working towards the same goal. In a workforce as diverse as the Middle East’s, these small steps can make a big difference in productivity, safety, and the overall well-being of everyone involved.

More Than Just Words

What truly stands out is clear, effective communication paired with cultural awareness. These skills are critical not only for engaging with clients but also for driving collaboration within diverse, multicultural teams—a hallmark of the Middle East’s dynamic workforce.

Building Bridges Across Cultures

As businesses compete to attract and retain top talent, language and communication proficiency are becoming more than just desirable skills—they’re key differentiators. In an interconnected world where relationships drive success, the ability to navigate both linguistic and cultural landscapes can set candidates apart and ensure long-term career growth.

Shyam Visavadia

Founder, WorkPanda