The UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are not stealing talent but are fostering an environment that supports innovation and professional development, officials said during the World Economic Forum. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, highlighted the region’s dedication to creating opportunities for talent to scale their skills and technologies, driving prosperity across the GCC. Speaking at a panel discussion titled "Hacking Trade and Investment," Al Zeyoudi stressed that the GCC’s goal is to empower talent rather than divert it from other markets.
Deemah Al Yahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) in Saudi Arabia, pointed out that infrastructure development plays a vital role in enabling innovation. She emphasized the region’s advancements in computing power and resilient infrastructure, which provide a foundation for talent to excel. These statements came in response to concerns expressed by Mounir Nakhla, CEO of MNT-Halan, who noted the challenges of retaining talent due to competition from GCC nations offering higher salaries.
The UAE and other Gulf countries have become global magnets for talent, offering high standards of living and exceptional career opportunities. Millions of expatriates currently reside and work in the region, drawn by the ecosystem that supports both personal and professional growth. Al Zeyoudi also highlighted the potential of developing economies, emphasizing the need to align technology deployment with infrastructure development. He noted that without strong infrastructure, the benefits of innovation cannot be fully realized.
The UAE and GCC countries’ ongoing efforts to create a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and professional success reaffirm their positions as global hubs for talent. These initiatives not only attract top professionals but also strengthen the region’s leadership in economic development and technological advancement.
