In today’s fast-paced world, a new study has revealed a surprising shift in priorities among working professionals in the UAE. While high salaries and career success have traditionally been seen as the ultimate goals, it seems many employees are now focusing on something far more personal — work-life balance.
According to the latest research, a significant 68% of professionals in the UAE are now prioritising work-life balance over their paycheck. That’s more than two-thirds of the workforce! This trend reflects a growing awareness of mental health, personal time, and overall life satisfaction — especially after the global changes brought by the pandemic.
Let’s dive into what’s behind this shift and what it could mean for companies, employees, and the future of work in the UAE.
The Changing Definition of Success
Gone are the days when working long hours and sacrificing weekends was seen as a badge of honour. Today’s professionals, especially millennials and Gen Z workers, are questioning this mindset. For many of them, success is no longer just about money. Instead, it’s about living a fulfilling life where there is time for family, hobbies, health, and personal growth.
The recent survey results clearly reflect this new thinking. When asked what they value most in a job, the majority of UAE professionals pointed to flexible hours, fewer overtime demands, mental wellness support, and the freedom to disconnect after work. Salary, while still important, ranked lower on the list.
Interestingly, this trend is not just limited to younger workers. Many mid-career professionals, who may have experienced burnout or health issues due to overwork, are also rethinking their priorities. They now prefer roles that allow them to enjoy life outside the office.
Mental Health Is No Longer a Taboo Topic
One major reason behind the rise in demand for work-life balance is a growing focus on mental health. In the UAE, more companies are openly talking about stress, burnout, and employee well-being than ever before.
Work-from-home arrangements during the COVID-19 pandemic showed people the value of personal time and flexibility. Many employees realised they could be just as productive without being tied to their desks for 10 hours a day. This experience opened the door for conversations around mental wellness, rest, and the need for healthier work routines.
In fact, several companies in the UAE are now offering wellness days, therapy sessions, and mental health apps as part of their employee benefits. This shift signals a larger cultural change — one that sees mental health as just as important as physical health or salary.
Employers Are Taking Notice
With such a large percentage of professionals demanding better balance, companies are beginning to adjust how they attract and keep talent. Employers who fail to offer flexibility or push for long working hours may find it harder to hire or retain staff.
More UAE firms are offering hybrid work options, flexible schedules, and remote work setups. Some are even trialing four-day workweeks to support their employees’ well-being. Others are redesigning office spaces to be more relaxing and creative, rather than high-pressure and rigid.
These companies have found that when employees feel happy and well-rested, they perform better, stay longer, and help build a more positive work culture.
Women and Parents Leading the Change
Another group pushing for work-life balance is working parents — especially mothers. With childcare and family duties still heavily falling on women in many households, a demanding work environment can quickly become overwhelming.
In the UAE, women professionals are increasingly choosing employers who support flexible timings, remote work, and family-friendly policies. And the companies that do so are benefiting from a more loyal and motivated workforce.
Fathers too are becoming more involved at home and are asking for similar flexibility to spend time with their kids. This new family-first mindset is reshaping what a “normal” workday looks like.
It’s Not Just About Time Off
While having time away from work is one part of the equation, professionals are also seeking jobs that bring them purpose and meaning. Many want to feel that their work matters and contributes positively to society.
This is especially true for younger workers, who are drawn to organisations with strong values, sustainability goals, and a good work culture. They’re not just chasing money — they want careers that align with their personal beliefs and passions.
That’s why companies in the UAE are not only offering better work-life balance but are also investing in leadership training, mentoring, social impact projects, and team-building efforts that go beyond the usual 9-to-5.
The Future of Work in the UAE
So, what does all this mean for the future of work in the UAE?
Experts believe that the concept of balance will become even more important in the years ahead. The traditional “hustle culture” is losing its shine, and a more human-focused approach to work is taking its place.
Companies that listen to their employees, support well-being, and provide room for personal life will likely attract the best talent. Meanwhile, professionals will continue to choose quality of life over large paychecks — especially if those paychecks come with stress and exhaustion.
UAE’s job market is known for being fast-moving and competitive. But as this new wave of thinking spreads, it’s clear that the most successful organisations will be those that understand one simple truth: happy employees make great companies.
Also read: Abu Dhabi’s Powerful Mental Health Walk Unites the Community
