Safe - Guarding Talent In The Gulf

Emma Hodgson Explores How The The Gulf Region Is Inspiring A New Generation Of Business Leaders

- Emma Hodgson

MUCH IS MADE ABOUT THE ROLE OF TALENT IN BUSINESS. Terms such as, ‘war for talent’ and ‘talent management’ have become popular buzzwords as companies attempt to evolve and grow during a tumultuous global economy.

But the role of talent in the Gulf is of particular importance, not just because the Middle East has previously relied heavily on outside investment (especially with regards to the workforce) but given the vast strides many countries in the region have made towards development on a global scale.

To continue innovating at such a rate is a challenge in and of itself, but to do so without the next generation of leaders and innovators is nigh on impossible. Fortunately, many individual businesses and governments in the Gulf have realised that to evolve and grow, local talent must be developed, and have put in place processes and procedures to help a new generation of business leaders get started. But there are still huge challenges to be faced. Not all talent comes pre-prepared with the skills to become successful – and chief among them is support.

According to last year’s Arab Youth Survey, there are three main factors that young Arabs deem necessary to develop. The most common response was “a wide range of work opportunities”. In second place was “safety and security”, followed by “generous salary packages”. With living costs on the rise, each of these factors is deeply affected by the role regional governments play in the development of young talent.

Fortunately, the region boasts more than a few government-backed programmes and initiatives that aim to help companies helmed by young Arabs, as well as position budding entrepreneurs in places they can gain experience.