By Staff Reporter
Remote Workers in UAE Demand Higher Pay and Enhanced Benefits to Return to Office Full-Time, Reveals Survey
As remote and hybrid work models continue to dominate the professional landscape, employees across the UAE are increasingly requesting higher pay and additional benefits if they are expected to return to the office full-time.
This shift is especially pronounced in the post-COVID-19 era, as workers prioritize maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
In both the UAE and globally, the demand for hybrid or remote work options has surged, as employees seek flexibility in their professional lives. A recent survey by JLL’s ‘Future of Work’ initiative found that 48% of participants in the Middle East are considering different benefits and pay for employees who regularly attend the office. Dana Williamson, Head of Offices, Business Space, and Retail for the Middle East and Africa at JLL, explained that this trend is driven by employees’ need for flexibility and their desire to balance work commitments with personal life.
“Employees expect additional benefits if employers want them to return to the office full-time. This demand is being fueled by the need for work-life balance and the growing importance placed on flexibility,”
Williamson said.
The survey also revealed that employees are increasingly requesting enhanced health insurance, wellness programs, salary increases, and additional financial incentives based on performance to offset the loss of flexibility, as well as the commuting costs associated with returning to the office.
Employer Response: Meeting Employee Demands
In response to these evolving expectations, some UAE employers are stepping up to meet their employees’ demands. Companies are offering higher salaries, increased housing allowances, transport allowances, and school fee subsidies to help workers cope with the rising cost of living.
“These benefits help employees manage their expenses more effectively. Some companies also offer family-friendly benefits like childcare support and school fee allowances, making it easier for employees to balance family and work commitments,”
Williamson shared.
Additionally, several employers have introduced flexible working hours and hybrid work options, allowing employees to manage their work-life balance better, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
Investing in Employee Wellness
Another significant trend in the UAE is the growing investment in wellness programs. Companies are increasingly prioritizing the physical and mental well-being of their employees. These wellness initiatives often include fitness classes, mental health support, stress management workshops, and nutrition counseling.
“Many companies in the UAE are planning to increase their investments in employee well-being programs to improve productivity, engagement, and retention,”
Williamson noted.
“Health and wellness programs have become an essential part of many organizations’ strategies to retain top talent, as they help employees manage stress and improve resilience.”
With health and wellness programs becoming a key factor in attracting and retaining talent, UAE employers recognize the importance of providing not only a supportive work environment but also a fulfilling personal life. The demand for well-being initiatives, combined with the desire for flexibility, is reshaping the future of work in the UAE.
In conclusion, the ongoing shift towards hybrid and remote work is pushing employers in the UAE to rethink their approach to employee benefits. As workers seek a better work-life balance, flexible work options, and enhanced benefits, companies that prioritize these demands will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive market.
News Source: Khaleej Times
