Human Times

Middle East Edition

15th January 2026

THE HOT STORY

Pay pressure mounts for GCC employers

New research from the Hays GCC Salary Guide 2026 reveals that 60% of professionals in the Gulf feel their pay does not match their responsibilities. While 58% received salary increases in 2025, many expect even higher raises in 2026, with 78% optimistic about future increases. Employers also anticipate salary growth, with 70% expecting raises. However, 90% of organisations reported skills gaps, primarily due to uncompetitive salaries and intense competition for talent. Oliver Kowalski, managing director at Hays Middle East, noted the region's resilience amid global economic uncertainties.

Zawya EN

Khaleej Times Online

WORKFORCE

Global unemployment rate holds steady

The global unemployment rate is projected to remain at 4.9% until 2027, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). Despite this apparent stability, ILO officials warned of a significant shortage of jobs, with 186m people currently unemployed. Caroline Fredrickson, head of the ILO's research department, noted: "Global labour markets look stable, but that stability is quite fragile." The report also highlighted that nearly 300m workers live in extreme poverty, earning less than $3 a day, and 2.1bn are in informal jobs with limited protections.

Daily Sabah

Job seekers face automated challenges

In 2026, job seekers feel overwhelmed by automated hiring processes. A Glassdoor poll revealed that over 70% of workers lack optimism about their job search. In competitive markets like the UAE, many applications are filtered out by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) before reaching recruiters. Mohamed Bahaa, operations director at TalentOne, emphasised the need for candidates to tailor their CVs and enhance their visibility. Networking and referrals are crucial, as Karuna Agarwal noted that connections can significantly impact job prospects. Nisha Nair, recruitment manager at Innovations Group, highlighted the importance of targeted applications.

Khaleej Times Online

ECONOMY

Saudi's AI revolution unfolds

Saudi Arabia's development narrative is evolving, driven by rapid advancements in AI. In 2024, non-oil GDP growth surpassed 4%, reflecting a shift beyond oil dependency. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) are spearheading this transformation, integrating AI into various sectors. However, this rapid change raises questions about the adaptability of social and institutional systems. Amrita Gidvani noted: "AI does not simply test technological readiness, but reveals development capacity." The focus is on ensuring that growth aligns with sustainable development.

Saudi Gazette

HIRING

McKinsey challenges graduates to use AI chatbot in recruitment overhaul

McKinsey is piloting a shake-up in how it recruits its next generation, asking graduate candidates to use an AI assistant to complete tests designed to reflect consultants’ new ways of working. According to CaseBasix, a company that helps candidates apply for posts at leading strategic consulting companies, the firm is asking candidates in “select final rounds” to complete tests using McKinsey’s internal AI tool, Lilli. Mayank Gupta, chief executive of CaseBasix, said that other top consulting firms, including Boston Consulting Group and Bain, are also likely to adopt AI in their interview procedures.

Financial Times

The Guardian

Big Tech's energy hiring surge

Big Tech is increasingly hiring energy specialists as electricity access becomes crucial for AI infrastructure expansion. Energy-related recruitment at tech firms surged by 34% year on year in 2024, remaining 30% above pre-2022 levels, according to Workforce.ai data. This trend reflects the rising demand for skills in power procurement and grid connections. Daniel Smart, group chief executive of The Green Recruitment Company, noted: "Energy strategy, power purchase agreements and grid interface skills are now among the most in-demand profiles." Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google have made significant energy-related hires since 2022.

City A.M.

STRATEGY

Sharjah's bold new investment strategy

Sharjah Asset Management has launched its new strategy for 2026–2028, aiming to enhance economic and social development in the Emirate of Sharjah. His Excellency Waleed Al Sayegh, GCEO, emphasised the importance of human capital in achieving the strategy's goals. The plan focuses on maximising asset value, improving operational performance, and fostering strategic partnerships. It aims to create a supportive work environment, attract top talent, and ensure sustainable financial performance. Al Sayegh said: "Our employees are the true drivers of achievement," highlighting their role in the strategy's success.

Zawya EN

Playtika slashes workforce by 500

Playtika Holding Co., an Israeli-founded online gaming developer, is laying off about 500 employees, representing 15% of its workforce. This decision aims to reduce costs and shift towards smaller teams that utilise AI and automation. Chief executive Robert Antokol stated that the company is adapting to a changing economic landscape in the mobile games market. Playtika plans to invest in new game development while ensuring support for affected employees. The firm, which went public in 2021, has seen its market value drop significantly, from $13bn to $1.38bn over the past year.

The Times of Israel

INVESTMENT

EIB and IFC boost North Africa investments

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have signed agreements to invest $137.5m into North Africa's RMBV and Alta Semper funds. Minister Rania Al-Mashat witnessed the signing in Cairo. The EIB's $80m commitment aims to enhance private sector development and sustainability in Egypt. Additionally, the EIB and IFC will invest $57.5m in the Alta Semper II Fund to support healthcare growth across Africa. Al-Mashat noted Egypt's role in cross-border financing, while EIB Vice President Gelsomina Vigliotti highlighted Egypt's strategic importance to the EU.

Zawya EN

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

CDL Academy and UTM join forces

CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 9 January 2026 to enhance collaboration in talent development and sustainable construction practices. The agreement, signed by UTM Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim and CDL Academy Chairman Dato' Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria, aims to provide students with practical experience through internships, workshops, and training programmes. This partnership will last for three years, focusing on developing industry-ready graduates and addressing the needs of the construction sector. "The collaboration exemplifies UTM's efforts to equip graduates with essential skills," said Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry.

Zawya EN

LEGAL

Saudi cracks down on non-profits

The National Center for Non-Profit Sector in Saudi Arabia has implemented strict measures against several non-profit organisations. These actions include dismissing the board of directors of one organisation, revoking licenses of three others, and investigating another 89 for regulatory violations. The centre referred 28 organisations to authorities and issued warnings to 436 others. It emphasised the need for compliance with regulations. By the end of December 2025, the total number of registered non-profit organisations in the Kingdom reached 7,291, with 1,161 fundraising licenses issued.

Zawya EN

SUSTAINABILITY

Private sector's role in sustainability

The fourth edition of the Private Sector Social Responsibility and Its Role in Sustainable Development conference has commenced in Doha, hosted by Qatar Chamber. The event aims to showcase the private sector's role, particularly family businesses, in promoting social responsibility and sustainability. Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into corporate strategies. Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari noted that this integration is vital for cohesive economies. The conference also emphasised the significant contribution of family businesses to the Arab economy, representing nearly 75% of it.

Gulf Times

EVENTS

LEAP East set to ignite tech talks

LEAP East will debut in Hong Kong from 8th to 10th July 2026, serving as a key platform for technology discussions and business opportunities between Saudi Arabia, APAC, and the global market. Co-organised by Tahaluf and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the event will feature over 300 speakers and exhibitors. Notable participants include stc and NHC Innovation, highlighting Saudi Arabia's interest in APAC expansion. Dr. Allan Zeman, chair of Lan Kwai Fong Group, expressed excitement about the event's potential to foster transformative ideas in technology and sustainability.

South China Morning Post

INTERNATIONAL

Older workers dominate the job market

The U.S. labour force is ageing as workers aged 65 and older are delaying retirement or returning to work, limiting opportunities for younger job seekers. A study by Revelio Labs revealed that the average age of new hires has risen by 18 months since 2022, reflecting a more selective job market. Older workers are favoured due to their experience and productivity, while younger applicants face increased barriers to entry. Revelio noted: "Older workers are staying longer in the labour force or returning from retirement, while younger workers face higher barriers to entry."

The Independent UK

UK firms concerned over worker rights reforms

The UK Employment Rights Act is projected to cost businesses £1bn annually. This figure marks a decline on a previous estimate of £5bn, which was based on a now-abandoned policy allowing immediate unfair dismissal claims. The British Chambers of Commerce has expressed scepticism about the savings, saying employers remain concerned about the "cumulative financial impact" of the legislation and the "impact on their ability to recruit, develop and harness a skilled workforce." The new Fair Work Agency will oversee employment rights enforcement, but critics, including Andrew Grifth, the Shadow Business and Trade Secretary, argue it serves union interests rather than businesses.

The Daily Telegraph

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