Will Women See Bigger Paychecks in 2025?
Salary Raises in 2025? 46% Of Women Expect Increases, While Men Receive More Bonuses in the Region
According to a new survey conducted in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), North Africa, and the Levant regions, men are more likely to receive bonuses and other monetary benefits, while women more often benefit from work-life balance policies. The Bayt.com study, which involved over 1,200 employees, also highlighted the types of pay and benefit structures that employees would find ideal.
Salary Growth: What Can We Expect From 2025?
66% of respondents indicated they did not receive a salary increase in 2024. Conversely, 46% of women and 34% of men expect at least a 20% salary increase in 2025. Optimism is on the rise, with one in five workers planning to request a raise in the new year. Salary raises in the region are crucial not only to adjust for inflation but also to retain talent.
Men's Advantages: Bonuses and Other Benefits
The research indicates that men receive significantly more bonuses and other financial benefits than women. These benefits include housing allowances and various monetary incentives which are particularly popular in the GCC region. The survey also revealed that about three-quarters of the male participants are the sole breadwinners of their families, compared to only 31% of women, who reported relying on another family member's or spouse's income.
Work-Life Balance: More Favorable Policies for Women?
Women benefit more from work-life balance policies. These include flexible working hours, which only 25% of respondents enjoy. Family-friendly benefits, such as educational support or travel allowances, remain rare in the region, highlighting a significant shortfall on the part of employers.
How Can Employers Improve Compensation Structures?
The study emphasized areas where employers could improve to retain talent:
a. Providing flexible working hours: This is especially important for younger employees and women.
b. Enhancing family-friendly benefits: Increasing educational and travel support would improve employee satisfaction.
c. Equality in financial incentives: Equal treatment between genders would help reduce the gender gap.
What Can Employees Expect in 2025?
Expectations suggest that in 2025, employees will put increasing pressure on employers for salary increases and equal benefits. Salary dynamics in the region are changing, but with growing expectations, particularly from women, employers must act to maintain their employees' motivation and satisfaction.
The Bayt.com survey highlights that employees in the region expect not only competitive salaries but also comprehensive benefits packages that address the challenges and needs of the modern work environment. For employers, this is a clear signal that responding to employee needs is crucial for successful business operations.
