Required Jobs in UAE Holding Companies in 2024

By: Marziyeh HasanAbadi

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a dynamic and rapidly evolving hub for business and economic activity in the Middle East. In recent years, the nature of technology and management within the UAE has undergone significant transformations, mirroring the broader political and economic changes that have swept across the region.

Despite the various tensions and challenges that have impacted the broader Middle East, the holding companies in the UAE have experienced substantial growth and development. However, one of the most striking changes observed has been the remarkable shift in the human capital skills required by these holding companies, with a staggering 76.2% change in the in-demand skills from 2015 to the post-2022 period.

The Shifting Landscape of Holding Company Skills

In 2015, the most sought-after skills among UAE holding companies were primarily focused on traditional business functions, such as team management, aviation, operations management, airports, contract management, customer satisfaction, project engineering, and project estimation and forecasting.

However, the landscape has shifted dramatically in the years following 2022. The holding companies in the UAE no longer prioritize these historical skill sets to the same extent. Instead, they have identified new and emerging areas of expertise that are now at the forefront of their talent requirements.

The Rise of "Internal Customer" Focus

One of the most significant changes in the skills demanded by UAE holding companies is the increased emphasis on the ability to manage and serve internal customers. This shift reflects the growing recognition that effective internal operations and cross-functional collaboration are crucial for driving organizational success in the modern business landscape.

Professionals with the skills to understand and address the needs of internal stakeholders, streamline processes, and foster seamless communication and cooperation across the organization are now highly valued by UAE holding companies.

Emerging Skills: ROI Strategies, HVAC, Facility Management, and More

In addition to the heightened focus on internal customer management, UAE holding companies have also identified a range of other specialized skills that have become increasingly important in the post-2022 era. These include:

1. ROI Strategies: The ability to develop and implement effective return-on-investment (ROI) strategies has become a critical skill, as holding companies seek to maximize the efficiency and profitability of their operations.

2. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Expertise in HVAC systems, their design, installation, and maintenance, has become a highly sought-after skill, reflecting the region's climate and the importance of maintaining comfortable and energy-efficient facilities.

3. Facility Management: The growing demand for facility management skills, including the ability to oversee the maintenance, operations, and optimization of physical assets, aligns with the UAE's continued investment in infrastructure and real estate development.

4. Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP): Proficiency in MEP systems, which are vital for the proper functioning of buildings and facilities, is another area of high importance for UAE holding companies.

5. Building Maintenance and Air Conditioning: Closely related to the HVAC and facility management skills, expertise in building maintenance and air conditioning systems is also in high demand, as holding companies seek to ensure the optimal performance and efficiency of their physical assets.

6. Customer Service Management: While the focus has shifted from external customer satisfaction to internal customer management, the ability to effectively manage customer service operations remains a valuable skill for UAE holding companies.

7. Preventive Maintenance: The emphasis on preventive maintenance, rather than reactive or corrective approaches, highlights the importance of proactive asset management and the desire to minimize downtime and operational disruptions.

Adapting to the Changing Landscape

The evolving skills landscape in UAE holding companies underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous learning for professionals seeking opportunities in the region. As the business environment continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements, changing market dynamics, and shifting organizational priorities, the specific skills in demand are constantly shifting.

Successful candidates in the UAE holding company job market will be those who can demonstrate a willingness to stay informed about industry trends, acquire new skills, and adapt to the changing needs of employers. By proactively investing in their professional development and showcasing their ability to contribute to the growth and transformation of UAE holding companies, aspiring professionals can position themselves as valuable assets.

Investing in Talent Development

The UAE's commitment to attracting and retaining a highly skilled workforce further underscores the importance of talent development within the holding company sector. As the country's economy continues to diversify and expand, the demand for specialized, technologically proficient talent is expected to increase.

Employers in the UAE are actively seeking individuals who not only possess the current in-demand skills but also demonstrate the potential to adapt and contribute to the industry's future needs. By investing in training, continuous education, and hands-on experience, professionals can enhance their marketability and capitalize on the abundant opportunities in the UAE's dynamic job market.

Conclusion

The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a leading business and economic hub in the Middle East, with its holding companies at the forefront of this transformation. The remarkable shift in the skills required by these holding companies, from traditional business functions to specialized expertise in areas such as internal customer management, ROI strategies, HVAC, facility management, and preventive maintenance, highlights the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the UAE's business landscape.

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