UAE jobs: Does hiring slow down during Ramadan? Here are industries that ramp up recruitment
Dubai: Is Ramadan a good time to change jobs? Contrary to popular belief, Ramadan presents a unique opportunity for job seekers looking to take their careers to the next level. According to recruiters, the Holy Month is when UAE professionals contemplate their career moves. Moreover, in some sectors, hiring is accelerated during this time.
For those who approach it strategically, Ramadan can be the perfect time to reflect on their career goals and take actionable steps toward securing a job, Bayt.com has said.
'Ramadan is a time of reflection, spiritual growth, and resetting personal goals. For professionals, this can be the perfect opportunity to reassess career aspirations, refine job search strategies, and invest time in career development,' the search engine said.
According to Bayt, nearly 80 per cent of professionals in the MENA region report using Ramadan to focus on their job search and professional growth. 'Despite the slowdown in regular work pace for many during this period, it gives professionals a window to revisit their CVs, upgrade skills, and explore fresh opportunities with a clearer mindset,' it said.
One of the most common misconceptions about job hunting during Ramadan is that businesses stop hiring or that hiring activity slows down. 'While it's true that some industries may experience a temporary dip, several sectors ramp up hiring efforts during this time. Industries such as hospitality, retail, e-commerce, logistics, and health services often see an increase in recruitment to meet the demand that Ramadan brings,' said Bayt.
Furthermore, many companies use this time to finalize recruitment strategies for post-Ramadan projects. Sixty-nine per cent of professionals from a previous Bayt.com survey believed that hiring activity increases during the holy month, particularly for positions related to customer service, supply chain management, and temporary roles. Ramadan could be a prime opportunity for job seekers in these sectors to find new career prospects.
Despite the global challenges in job markets, the UAE's labour market remains robust, said Ramy Labaky, General Director of Bayt.com. 'The country continues to attract talent across various sectors, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects, the growth of tech, finance, and healthcare industries, and the government's efforts to diversify the economy,' he said.
Labaky added, 'Ramadan is a unique time for job seekers, offering challenges and opportunities. While it's true that things slow down a bit, it's also a period where companies are looking for additional talent. Patience and persistence go a long way, and job seekers should remember that a personal connection during this time can make a lasting impact.'
Networking over Iftar is a game-changer
Ramadan isn't just about searching for jobs online or sending out applications—it's about leveraging the unique networking opportunities the month provides. Business Iftars and corporate Suhoor gatherings present ideal informal yet valuable networking settings.
Bayt said these events, which frequently occur during Ramadan, offer a relaxed atmosphere to connect with industry leaders, recruiters, and potential employers.
'Networking during Ramadan isn't just about exchanging business cards—it's about building genuine relationships in a setting that reflects the region's culture of collaboration and trust. These connections could become key to unlocking job opportunities in the future,' it said.
Job seekers should begin by refining their CVs and online presence.
Ensuring that their CV is up to date and tailored for the roles they are targeting is key to standing out. Patience and persistence are essential during this period, as response times may be slower due to reduced working hours. However, job seekers should continue applying for roles and following up when appropriate, as recruiters are still screening applications and setting up interviews.
Networking also plays an important role during Ramadan, offering a more relaxed environment in which to engage with industry professionals. Whether through online platforms or in-person at Iftar events, this period offers valuable opportunities for meaningful connections that can lead to future job opportunities. Furthermore, demonstrating cultural awareness is a must in the UAE.
Candidates who respect Ramadan's customs, such as being mindful of fasting hours, scheduling interviews at suitable times, and understanding the importance of the holy month, can differentiate themselves from others and leave a positive impression on employers.
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