Outlook 2012
2012 promises to be a solid year for the Middle East as it builds on its recovery from the effects of the 2008 global crisis and continues to benefit from strong oil prices and increased investment in the region. The UAE's prime locations, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, remain cautiously positive about growth of 3-4% of GDP, whilst Qatar and Saudi Arabia are even more bullish about prospects for the upcoming year.
There has been a steady increase in demand for HR professionals, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Dubai being the strongest markets in Q1 so far. Both multi nationals and regional firms account for the demand and across a multitude of industry sectors with the exception of Financial Services which remains slower. Specifically, there seems to be an increasing demand for Learning & Development and Compensation & Benefits professionals as our clients look to retain and develop the top talent that remains.