The migration of the Indian women workforce, particularly to the MENA region, has been a significant and growing trend in recent decades. As the quest for upward economic mobility and improved quality of life transcend borders, the United Arab Emirates has emerged as a powerful magnet for India’s female workforce. While India’s burgeoning economy does present its share of opportunities, the UAE’s diverse job market, progressive policies, and high living standards have catapulted a significant exodus of skilled Indian women to cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
As highlighted in a detailed report by Huntr, there are presently 35 lakh women from India working in the Middle East, and this number is projected to touch 60 lakh within the next 2-3 years to meet the escalating demand for a skilled workforce. In this regard, the demand for Indian women migrant workers in the MENA region is slated to grow by over 71% in sectors like hospitality and construction, with a notable 23% increase in demand in 2023 compared to the previous year. The above data is a clear and evident sign of the evolving times. These trends highlight the changing dynamics and opportunities for Indian women seeking employment in the MENA region’s growing sectors.
At the center of this remarkable shift lies the promise of lucrative salaries and abundant job prospects across crucial sectors. The UAE’s thriving healthcare industry, buttressed by world-class medical facilities, has proven particularly appealing to Indian nurses and medical professionals seeking better remuneration and working conditions. Similarly, the nation’s booming education sector, fueled by a growing expatriate population, offers attractive teaching positions for Indian women seeking to advance their careers.
Beyond the assurance of a world-class healthcare and education, the UAE’s flourishing hospitality and retail industries have further opened doors for Indian women seeking dynamic customer-facing roles. The nation’s tourism boom, coupled with its status as a global shopping destination, has synthesised a robust demand for skilled professionals in these sectors, often at salary levels surpassing those in India.
Moreover, the UAE’s efforts to diversify its economy have yielded a diverse array of opportunities in emerging sectors like technology, finance, and renewable energy. Indian women with specialized skills in these fields have found a welcoming environment, contributing to the nation’s ambitious vision of building an extensive knowledge-based economy.
The UAE’s strategic geographic location, situated at the crossroads of the Eastern and Western civilisations, has also proven advantageous for Indian women seeking international exposure and connectivity. The nation’s status as a globally-acclaimed hub for business, trade, and aviation has facilitated seamless travel and access to international markets, aligning with the aspirations of Indian women pursuing promising career trajectories.
Furthermore, the UAE’s multicultural tapestry that thrives through their glorious blending of traditions from around the world, has certainly enriched the living experience for Indian expatriates.
From diverse culinary offerings to vibrant cultural festivals, the UAE’s cosmopolitan fabric has provided a unique opportunity for Indian women to immerse themselves in a melting pot of cultures while maintaining ties to their own heritage. One of the most important factors catalysing this migration is the UAE’s commitment to providing a high standard of living, replete with modern infrastructure, world-class amenities, and a safe, clean environment that outrivals even the Europes, the Americas, and the Australias of the world. These quality of life factors, added to comprehensive employment benefits like health insurance, housing allowances, and robust public services, have positioned the UAE as an attractive destination for Indian women seeking long-term stability and personal growth.
Bottomline
As the UAE continues to cement its position as a global economic powerhouse and champion progressive policies, its appeal to India’s ambitious and talented female workforce is poised to endure. This migration not only reflects the aspirations of Indian women but also underscores the UAE’s commitment to developing an inclusive, diverse, and dynamic workforce capable of propelling the nation’s ambitious vision forward.
Shared by : Dr. Alekhya Sunkarneni,
Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Ankura Hospital for Women and Children L.B. Nagar Unit
