By dubailife 
Recruitment firms report a growing emphasis on demographic diversity in hiring practices among organizations. Headhunters also suggest that it’s high time companies in the UAE incorporate ‘cultural competency training’ to enhance employee effectiveness in a multicultural environment.
The firms further note that, as the UAE continues to emerge as a leader in the Middle East, the importance of diversity in hiring has never been more vital.
Zaid Alhiali, co-founder of Marc Ellis, stated, “Many employers in the UAE are increasingly prioritizing diversity, as highlighted by HR headhunters. Companies across various sectors now recognize that building a diverse team is not just a strategic advantage but a critical necessity for survival and aligning with the country’s sustainability goals.”
Industry experts note a rising focus on cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce in the UAE, driven by technological advancements and socio-economic shifts. However, as this trend gains momentum, some businesses face challenges in creating the right cultural environment, which can lead to operational difficulties and, at times, failures. Alhiali emphasized the importance of UAE companies investing in cultural competency training, which goes beyond basic awareness to include a deeper understanding and practical strategies for navigating cultural differences in the workplace.
Advantages of a Diverse Workforce
HR firms agree that diversity enhances a company’s ability to deliver innovative solutions and maintain high performance for clients and candidates globally.
“When we headhunt for our clients, we make it a point to present at least three qualified, diverse profiles, ensuring clients have a range of options to choose from. We firmly believe in the importance of diversity in this region. As a recruitment partner to major multinationals, we hold a responsibility to shape the future of the UAE and contribute directly to its success by hiring future leaders, creators, and innovators,” Alhiali added.
While job-seekers worldwide view the UAE as a desirable international employment destination with a promising hiring landscape, employers still face some challenges.
Rana Farouk Ali Abdelnabi, Senior Manager of Capacity and Capability Management at Emirates NBD Bank, emphasized that diversity is a crucial component of a well-balanced workplace, encompassing various aspects such as gender, cultural background, and age.
She noted that by embracing diversity, a company shows its commitment to acceptance and equality.
“In my experience,” she added, “leveraging diversity positively impacts the quality of hiring, as it allows us to tap into a broader range of skills and experiences. This approach attracts top-tier talent from diverse pools, ultimately leading to higher quality delivery and greater overall success for the organization.”
CREDIT : Khaleejtimes