Why Generation Z Rapidly Shifts Jobs in UAE

Why does Generation Z switch jobs so rapidly in the UAE?

The dynamics of the labor market are constantly changing, and the United Arab Emirates is no exception. Generation Z, comprising young individuals born after 1997, brings a completely new perspective to the world of employment. While previous generations like the Baby Boomers, Generation X, or millennials typically stayed longer at their first jobs, members of Generation Z change much quicker. According to a global survey, this duration averages only 1.1 years – a trend increasingly noticeable in the UAE.

Rapid job changes are not always due to dissatisfaction

Many tend to believe that frequent job changes indicate dissatisfaction or lack of loyalty, but for young professionals, it is more about ambition, thirst for knowledge, and a desire for growth. For Generation Z, long-term commitment is not the most crucial factor; rather, it's the opportunity for learning, skill development, and meaningful work.

A survey conducted by Randstad – involving 11,250 workers from 15 countries and analyzing data from 126 million job advertisements – confirmed that this trend is not unique but observable globally. Young workers in the UAE are following this path too, viewing job changes more as strategic career-building steps rather than escape routes.

More than salary: meaningful work and learning

A stable salary or job title is no longer sufficient for young individuals. Many decide to leave if they feel their work lacks real value or if they cannot progress.

Daily routines, monotonous tasks, lack of creativity, and strict hierarchical structures are all factors that can lead to rapid departures. Generation Z seeks workplaces where they are challenged, can grow, and where their work is appreciated.

Work-life balance is also an important aspect. Excessive expectations, constant online presence, or a toxic work environment can quickly lead to burnout. Young people are increasingly unwilling to accept this, opting instead to move on and look for new opportunities.

Trust and micromanagement issues

Another common reason why Generation Z workers leave their first jobs quickly is micromanagement. Excessive control and lack of creative freedom can be alienating. This generation seeks environments where they are trusted and given opportunities for independent decision-making and initiative.

Employers who cannot adapt to this may easily lose young talents. If a job does not offer real learning opportunities, or if the workplace culture does not support individual development, members of Generation Z will not hesitate – they simply move on.

Strategic career building in the short term

Young individuals in the UAE are consciously building their careers. They do not necessarily leave a job because it is problematic – often they change to gain new experiences, expand their networks, and prepare for their long-term goals.

The concept of "experience gathering" and "career stepping stones" is pivotal: many young people view their first job as a launchpad toward a desired position or industry. This mindset is particularly prevalent in fields like fashion, media, technology, marketing, or finance.

How can employers adapt?

While initially challenging, this trend offers opportunities for companies as high turnover rates involve costs, time loss, and resource implications. However, recognizing the new generation's priorities and being willing to change traditional structures can help employers retain young employees longer.

Key elements could include:

Providing career development opportunities: training, courses, mentoring

Flexible work environment: hybrid work, flexible hours

Leadership based on trust: empowerment instead of micromanagement

Creating meaningful roles: where results are visible, and there is feedback

Strong corporate culture: where employees feel valued and truly part of a community

Summary

The approach of Generation Z workers in the UAE towards work is radically different from previous generations. For them, rapid job changes are not failures but conscious steps towards a goal: to grow, learn, and work in places that provide meaning.

For employers, this also presents an opportunity – by understanding new needs and adapting, they can not only retain young talents longer but also create genuinely innovative and inspiring workplaces for the future generation. Change is inevitable – but those open to it can turn it into an advantage.

(Article source: based on Randstad research.)