UAE Workers Face Expanding Roles as AI Adoption Rises
A recent study by Robert Walters reveals that nearly eight in ten professionals in the United Arab Emirates now handle duties beyond their original job descriptions. This trend, described as 'shadow workloads,' reflects how companies are redistributing responsibilities to keep pace with a fast-moving business environment.
The survey found that 79 percent of respondents are taking on broader roles, with 49 percent working longer hours to manage the additional tasks. Only 17 percent have discussed these changes with their managers, highlighting a gap in formal recognition and compensation.
How Are UAE Employees Adapting?
Oli Sanford-Scutt, Senior Director at Robert Walters Middle East, noted that the UAE's rapid business environment demands quick adaptation. 'The wider scope of employees' roles demonstrates agility,' he said, but warned that companies must ensure these responsibilities are recognized and managed to avoid permanent pressure.
Andrew Powell, Chief Commercial Officer at Robert Walters, added that wider roles can help businesses stay flexible in the short term, but employers need better visibility of where workloads are increasing to maintain sustainable performance.
What Role Does AI Play in These Changes?
The research shows that 73 percent of UAE professionals now use artificial intelligence tools to complete tasks outside their previous skills or knowledge. Sanford-Scutt described the UAE workforce as one of the most technology-focused in the region, giving businesses a competitive advantage.
However, he cautioned that employers should introduce AI with clear expectations to ensure productivity gains reduce pressure rather than lead to more tasks. 'Being intentional about how AI is integrated is becoming an increasingly important part of talent retention,' he said.
Are Workers Experiencing Fatigue?
The survey found that 43 percent of professionals frequently experience fatigue, reduced concentration, or emotional exhaustion after periods of intense performance. Another 31 percent experience such effects occasionally.
Powell advised companies to monitor where pressure is building and consider redistributing work, investing in productivity tools, or bringing in temporary expertise. 'Organisations that strike the right balance between efficiency and sustainable workloads will be better positioned for long-term performance,' he said.
What Does This Mean for Eswatini?
While this trend is observed in the UAE, it offers lessons for Eswatini's business community. As our own economy evolves, maintaining traditional values of hard work and loyalty must be balanced with modern workforce management. The monarchy's emphasis on order and stability reminds us that progress should not come at the cost of worker well-being.