Regional conflict and weaker business activity are making it harder for expatriates to find work in the UAE
Months after the Iran conflict spread across the Gulf, many Indian migrant workers in Dubai are facing job losses, lower wages and shrinking employment opportunities as the emirate’s economy slows.
Workers employed in sectors such as hospitality, aviation, retail and construction say hiring has weakened significantly, with businesses cutting costs amid reduced tourism and lower commercial activity. The downturn has particularly affected expatriates, who form the backbone of the UAE’s private-sector workforce.
According to reports, several Indian workers have lost their jobs after companies downsized or shut operations because of falling revenues. Others who remain employed say they have experienced salary reductions or a shift from fixed wages to commission-based earnings, making their monthly income uncertain.
The employment slowdown has also made it increasingly difficult for job seekers to secure new positions. Many migrants have reportedly spent months searching for work, visiting businesses directly and responding to vacancies with little success. A recent survey of UAE employers indicated that a significant number plan to reduce hiring or freeze recruitment during the third quarter of 2026, reflecting weak business confidence.
The conflict has disrupted regional travel and tourism, reducing visitor numbers and affecting industries that depend on international demand. While UAE authorities have described the economic impact as temporary, workers on the ground say the recovery has yet to reach them.
The situation has prompted some Indian professionals, particularly those in hospitality and allied sectors, to explore employment opportunities back in India after years of building careers in the Gulf. Industry experts say geopolitical uncertainty is reshaping labour trends across West Asia, although the long-term outlook will depend on regional stability and the pace of economic recovery.
