Workplace Challenges in UAE by 2025

Workplace Challenges and Risks in 2025: Cybercrime, Cost of Living, and Mental Health in the UAE

The global labor market and corporate environment are constantly changing, bringing about new challenges and risks. A recent survey conducted by International SOS, a global health and safety risk management company, shed light on the risks companies and employees expect to face in 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other parts of the world. Cybercrime, workplace stress, rising cost of living, and mental health topped the list, while geopolitical tensions were deemed the least concerning.

Cybercrime and Workplace Stress Dominate

According to the International SOS survey, 78% of respondents considered cybercrime and online attacks, as well as workplace stress and burnout, to be the greatest risks. The increase in cost of living came in at 75%, while concerns about mental health closed out the top three risk factors at 70%. Geopolitical tensions only reached the last place with a 69% indication.

Participants in the survey were asked about the likelihood that the listed problems would significantly impact their company or employees over the next 12 months. The survey was conducted by International SOS in the last quarter of 2024 among its global contacts and clients, and the results were presented at the Middle East|Risk Outlook 2025 event in Dubai. The goal was to explore how geopolitics, security challenges, and health risks intersect and to inform companies on how to implement smarter, more cohesive approaches to protect their employees and operations.

Why Does Risk Assessment Differ?

During an in-depth analysis of the survey, the CEO of International SOS's Middle East region highlighted that risk assessment and concerns vary significantly among different leadership levels. Among top executives, 75% believed political and social tensions, as well as protests, pose significant impacts on the company or employees. CEOs rated geopolitical tensions at 74% and transportation risks at 73% as the biggest concerns. Cybercrime and online attacks mainly posed risks for decision-making teams, while workplace stress and burnout were the primary concerns among middle managers, marking an 80% ratio.

This difference is because top executives tend to focus on wider issues, such as geopolitical tensions. However, descending the hierarchy, leaders and employees increasingly focus on personal issues such as well-being and mental health. This indicates that the concerns are more localized, focusing on individual needs, while leaders hold broader responsibilities and future perspectives.

No One-Size-Fits-All Solution

It was emphasized that the survey results clearly show there is no universal solution suitable for all organizations. Therefore, it is crucial for companies to focus on areas relevant to their own structure and organization. For example, supporting employee well-being might be a priority for some companies.

The Safety of the UAE and Geopolitical Tensions

The survey revealed that geopolitical tensions in the region are among the least concerning factors in the UAE. This is not because residents live in a "bubble," but because the UAE provides a safe and pleasant environment. "I believe the primary reason is that the UAE allows us to live in such a safe and pleasant environment," they said. They added that residents feel safe and protected, which is why their concerns differ from those in other countries.

However, they warned that the UAE is not immune to global issues such as high living costs, and geopolitical tensions do impact the country as everything is interconnected.

How Can Companies Prepare?

Companies must proactively manage emerging risks. According to International SOS, the best approach is for companies to apply smarter and more cohesive strategies to protect their employees and operations. This might include strengthening cybersecurity, supporting workplace mental health, and optimizing budget planning to address the rising cost of living.

Conclusion

In 2025, the greatest challenges for UAE companies and employees are not geopolitical tensions, but cybercrime, workplace burnout, and the cost of living. Organizations need to be flexible and implement tailor-made solutions to prepare for these challenges to ensure employee well-being and business continuity.