It’s the conversation every employee quietly has with themselves — how do I earn more? In a city known for its towering skyscrapers, luxury living, and fierce competition, the question of salary growth is never far from people’s minds. Now, leading career experts in the UAE are lifting the curtain on what it really takes to score a 20% salary increase, and their insights might just surprise you.
If you’ve been stuck at the same pay grade or wondering how your colleagues manage those impressive raises, it turns out that landing a significant salary bump isn’t always about years of experience or connections. In fact, UAE career coaches and HR consultants reveal it often comes down to confidence, timing, and smart negotiation.
Let’s explore the advice, stories, and strategies that could help you unlock that elusive 20% salary hike in your current job or next opportunity.
Confidence Is the Currency You Didn’t Know You Needed
According to top career advisors, the first step towards earning more is believing you’re worth it. And while that might sound like a motivational cliché, in the UAE’s fast-paced, multicultural work environment, confidence is often mistaken for competence.
UAE-based executive career coach Rania A. explains that one of the biggest barriers to salary growth is people underestimating themselves. “Many professionals in the UAE, especially expats, hesitate to negotiate because they fear losing the job offer or upsetting their current employer. But in reality, the market here expects it — and rewards those who can professionally advocate for themselves.”
She advises professionals to walk into salary discussions armed with data about industry salary ranges, personal achievements, and clear examples of how they’ve added value to their organisation.
Timing Your Ask: Why It Matters More Than You Think
You might be the hardest working person in your office, but if you ask for a raise at the wrong time, you’re likely to be disappointed. UAE experts emphasise that timing plays a crucial role in whether your salary increase request gets accepted.
The best time to discuss a raise is either during your annual performance review or right after a major success — like closing a high-value deal, leading a successful project, or securing an important client. Employers are far more open to reward when the value you bring is fresh in their minds.
“Don’t wait for your manager to remember your accomplishments,” says business strategist Khaled M. “Be proactive and position your request right after delivering strong results. It makes it harder for them to say no.”
Master the Art of Salary Negotiation
Negotiation is a skill that isn’t taught in school but pays off more than most degrees. In the UAE’s competitive job market, knowing how to negotiate could be the single most important tool in your professional toolkit.
Experts suggest avoiding vague statements like “I was hoping for a raise” or “I feel I deserve more.” Instead, approach negotiations with specifics: a clear salary figure you’re targeting, the reasons you believe you deserve it, and evidence to back it up.
Start the conversation by highlighting your achievements, new responsibilities, and how you’ve contributed to the company’s growth. Then, calmly state the salary increase you’re seeking and ask for your employer’s feedback.
One UAE HR manager recounts how an employee earned a 25% increase simply by preparing a one-page document summarising their contributions and the market salary for their position. “The employee’s confidence and preparation made it very difficult for us to counter the request,” she says.
Know the Market Value of Your Role
In a city where industries range from oil and gas to luxury hospitality and cutting-edge fintech, salary standards can vary widely. That’s why it’s essential to regularly check the market rate for your role.
Experts recommend reviewing salary guides released by recruitment agencies or job portals and speaking to trusted colleagues or contacts in the industry. This information not only gives you an idea of what to expect but also strengthens your negotiation case.
Many professionals in the UAE miss out on higher pay simply because they don’t know they’re underpaid. Being informed puts you in control and ensures you’re not settling for less than you deserve.
Upskill, Reskill, and Show You’re Future-Ready
Another insider secret to earning a bigger paycheck is staying ahead of the curve. In a city that constantly evolves, employers are always on the lookout for employees who can handle emerging trends and new technologies.
From AI-driven marketing to financial compliance and sustainability practices, upskilling in areas your company values can make you indispensable. UAE career coaches recommend enrolling in short online certifications, attending workshops, and even volunteering for new projects at work to gain relevant experience.
Employees who demonstrate a willingness to learn and take on additional responsibilities are often first in line for promotions and salary adjustments.
Don’t Wait for It — Ask for It
One of the most common mistakes professionals make is assuming that good work automatically leads to salary increases. In reality, most companies in the UAE operate on tight payroll structures and are unlikely to offer raises unless asked.
If you feel you’ve earned it, schedule a formal meeting with your manager, outline your achievements, and confidently present your salary expectations. Experts advise framing the conversation around your value to the company, rather than personal financial needs.
A Dubai-based marketing executive shares how she secured a 20% raise after leading a successful rebranding project. “I presented a clear case for how my work increased client engagement and contributed to revenue growth. I was nervous but focused on the business benefits. It worked.”
Build Relationships with Decision Makers
In the UAE’s relationship-driven business culture, knowing the right people can open doors — including to higher salaries. While your work should always speak for itself, having advocates within your organisation can boost your chances of getting that pay rise.
Cultivate genuine relationships with managers, department heads, and HR professionals. Attend company events, volunteer for cross-department projects, and engage in professional networking opportunities.
Experts reveal that employees who maintain visibility and strong internal connections often get considered first for salary increases and promotions, especially when opportunities arise unexpectedly.
Be Prepared to Walk Away
Perhaps the boldest strategy UAE experts recommend is being willing to walk away if your employer consistently undervalues your contribution. While this isn’t about issuing ultimatums, knowing your worth and having other options gives you negotiation power.
Before entering any salary discussion, update your CV, connect with recruiters, and apply for positions that meet your salary expectations. Even having interview offers can give you confidence in your market value.
One tech professional in Abu Dhabi says he managed to increase his salary by 30% after receiving an offer from a competitor. When he presented it to his employer, they counter-offered with a raise to retain him.
Salary Isn’t Just About Money
While a 20% increase in your base pay is attractive, experts also advise considering the full compensation package. Benefits such as health insurance, housing allowances, paid leave, education support, and annual flight tickets can add significant value to your overall income.
If your company can’t meet your salary expectations immediately, negotiate for additional benefits or performance-linked bonuses. Many UAE firms are flexible in offering perks even when salary budgets are tight.
A finance manager in Sharjah shares how she secured extra paid leave days and an annual bonus after her raise request was declined. “It wasn’t exactly what I asked for, but it improved my work-life balance and job satisfaction.”
Final Thoughts: You Deserve It
Securing a 20% salary increase in the UAE might seem daunting, but as the experts reveal, it’s far from impossible. It requires strategy, preparation, and courage. The key is to believe in your worth, time your request wisely, and approach the conversation with confidence and evidence.
Remember, you’re not just asking for more money — you’re advocating for your value, your future, and the contributions you make to your organisation’s success. And that, according to the pros, is always worth fighting for.
So the next time you feel underpaid or overlooked, don’t stay silent. Apply these expert-backed strategies, and you might just land the raise you’ve been dreaming about.
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