Salaries in the UAE are expected to go up by around 4% in 2026. Some jobs that are difficult to fill—especially in technology, finance, and business transformation—may even see salary increases of more than 10%, according to reports by Cooper Fitch and Korn Ferry.
Almost half of the companies in the UAE, about 48%, are planning to raise salaries next year. Around 37% of employers are likely to keep salaries the same, while about 15% may offer lower starting salaries for new employees.
This expected rise in pay is linked to several factors. The UAE’s non-oil sectors are performing strongly, and the government continues to make major investments in different industries. The country’s economy is also expected to grow by around 5.3%, which is encouraging businesses to reward and retain skilled workers.
Many employers are also bringing back benefits that had been reduced or removed in recent years. These include schooling allowances for children, support for families, and better medical insurance. Companies hope that offering these benefits will help them attract good talent and keep their current employees satisfied.
Overall, the outlook for salaries and employee benefits in 2026 appears positive as the UAE economy continues to expand and diversify.
