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Population shift from India to UAE second-largest in the world, says UN report

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The Emirates also has the second largest number of migrants as a proportion of the total population

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Khaleej Times spoke to some Indian workers in Dubai as to why the UAE has become the top destination for migrant workers.

The UAE has become the leading destination in the GCC region for Indian migrants who are seeking employment in the country, according to the emigration clearance data for the first half of 2017.

The first place was previously held by Saudi Arabia in the charts, as reported by the Times of India, however, the UAE is now leading the way. Out of the 184,000 total Indians who received emigration clearance, 40.6 per cent got clearance for the UAE, followed by 18 per cent for Saudi Arabia and 16.5 per cent for Oman.

Khaleej Times spoke to some Indian workers in Dubai as to why the UAE has become the top destination for migrant workers.

Sukhbir Singh said the UAE offers "more opportunities" for workers. The 31-year-old moved to Dubai a few years ago to earn more money and support his family back home in India.

"I think the work hours here are very long, but they are still better than what we will get in Saudi Arabia or other countries in this region. Also, when we get days off for Eid, we have more things to do here and ways to enjoy," Sukhbir said.

"I also believe people in the UAE are nicer and more welcoming. You can see so many people putting the refrigerators for workers, filled with free food. I don't think you will find this kind of gesture anywhere else. Everyone hears mostly good things about working in the UAE, especially Dubai. That's why, maybe, more people want to work in the UAE."

Another Indian worker Rahul Nireadi, 25, said he received a higher salary offer in the UAE than anywhere else.

Nireadi said he applied to jobs in Saudi Arabia and UAE through an agency when he was in India, however, Dubai's offer won him over.

"It's a few hundred Dirhams more but that still makes a huge difference for us - it can pay for a few days' worth of food for my family," he said.

"UAE is also better for the long-term stay if I save enough money and start a family here. There is more freedom and opportunities for us here."

According to the emigration clearance data, the falling migration numbers to Saudi Arabia is because of a major decrease from Uttar Pradesh (UP) in India in the first half of 2017.

In the past, the majority of migrants hailed from the UP, however that figure has fallen drastically. Currently, Indians from Bihar contribute to the largest number of migrants in the gulf, at a figure of 19.5 per cent (35,807).
- sarwat@khaleejtimes.com

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Dubai workers on why UAE is top destination for Indian jobseekers

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Khaleej Times spoke to some Indian workers in Dubai as to why the UAE has become the top destination for migrant workers. The UAE has become the leading destination in the GCC region for Indian migrants who are seeking employment in the country, according to the emigration clearance data for the first half of 2017.

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Dubai a global financial and trade hub offering tons of opportunities to those who dare to dream big.

With some of the best business and employment opportunities, it's no surprise Dubai attracts expats from all corners of the world. If you're looking to work in a cosmopolitan city that is strategically located on the global map, look no further. Dubai not only offers world-class comfort and luxury, but also a tax-free salary so that you don't break your budget to achieve your dreams.

Job prospects, better salaries, just name it and you have it here. Ever wondered? Dubai may just be the place for you.
1. Great quality of living
UAE's Dubai and Abu Dhabi emirates offer the highest quality of living in the Middle East and Africa region, according to Mercer's 2016 Quality of Living Rankings.

This year, only two cities from the MENA region made it among the top 100, including Dubai, ranked at 75 (overall no.1 in the region, and Abu Dhabi, ranked at 81 (over no. 2 in the region). This is the fourth time in a row that Dubai has been ranked as the top Middle Eastern city for living.
2. Safety and security
The quality of life provided by the emirate comes with the perk of being tax-free. The place spoils you with its line of restaurants, supermarkets and modes of entertainment. Tourists from all over the world visit this city for its fantastic shopping experience during the Dubai Shopping festival. From the biggest brands to the gold and spice souks - Dubai has something for everyone -- be it pocket-friendly or luxurious.

For expats, safety in particular is a key factor to work abroad, according to Business consulting major Mercer.

Dubai is ranked #40 globally on the safety parameter and follows Muscat regionally.

It doesn't matter what time of the day you step out, you can freely walk on the streets of the emirate without the fear of being attacked or mugged. Crime-rate in the emirate is close to non-existent and the police is efficient and fast.
3. Ease of starting your own business
Businesses thrive in secure circumstances and Dubai provides an investor-friendly environment coupled with stringent business laws to accommodate foreign investors.

New markets, new consumers, the rise of Internet technology - Dubai is a land of booming opportunities.

A recent survey by HSBC revealed that Dubai is ranked second-best city in the world after Singapore for expats looking to start a business. The survey highlights that the UAE's entrepreneurial environment, job prospects and better salaries as primary factors attracting expats from across the world.
4. World class infrastructure
"Despite the volatility in the global economy and insecurity in job markets, the UAE's diverse business landscape and its position as a hub in the Middle East means that it continues to be an attractive destination for expats from across the world," the survey report said.

An ever growing network of roads, rail, ports and development projects -- Just blink and it's upgraded. In the run-up to the Expo 2020, the Dubai construction sector is poised to outperform the overall UAE market, although growth across the emirates is expected to remain healthy at 6.6 per cent despite low oil prices, market watchers said.

"While lower oil prices pose little threat to the UAE's construction industry outlook overall, we forecast real growth in 2016 of 6.6 per cent in real terms year on year," the report said.
5. Tax-free
According to another report by design and consultancy firm Arcadis, the UAE and Qatar remain the top most attractive markets for infrastructure investors globally.

What's the use of staying abroad, away from your family if you're not even able to save enough? Dubai provides the best tax-free investment opportunities to residents who want to live a comfortable and luxurious life. You do not need to pay wealth tax, corporate tax or income tax.
6. Global exposure
While investors get maximum profits on rented out property in Dubai, the benefit of having to pay no tax simply means that a person can save enough money to invest elsewhere.

With its diverse array of work and employees, Dubai no doubt gives you the biggest grounding in international business.
7. Multi-cultural workforce
Its a global financial and trade hub offering tons of opportunities to those who dare to dream big. Its growing economy offers fruits in all sectors, leading to a constant influx of both investors and workers who wish to rake in the benefits. It is the city's very rise to the top of various global rankings that have made investment in key economic sectors like real estate, finance, services and hospitality a profitable venture for thousands of individuals.

Dubai is a place where east meets west. Residents here represent over 180 different nationalities across the world. It is strategically located at the centre of the world business map which is easily accessible from different parts of Asia, the Middle East and even European countries. Dubai can also be a launch pad if you wish to immigrate to other countries, say Canada, Australia, Hong Kong and so on.

So it's only just the Arabic lifestyle that you can experience here, but you also get to interact and work with people from all corners of the world.

8. English is widely spoken
9. Tourist's delight
Unlike most of the other cities in the Midlle East, English is widely spoken and understood by most of the people who work and live in Dubai. There is no language barrier as such that can prove to be a major hindrance for expats. Knowing Arabic is definitely a plus, and it can land you better job opportunities. But that said, most of the local population speak and understand English, making it easier for expats from all over the world do business with the locals.

From the vast desert to the deep sea - and everything in between - Dubai is a heaven for tourists. The city's economy has seen a gradual shift from oil dependency towards tourism and hospitality.
10. Expo 2020
A large number of tourists visit the emirate each year to marvel at the many world-class entertainment and recreational facilities that the city offers. Looking at this trend, many foreign investors are now investing heavily in the emirate's tourism industry in the hope of gaining good returns on their capital with time.

Dubai's preparations for Expo 2020 are in full swing. It's expected to attract almost 30 million visitors in the six-month duration over which the event would be held. This is good news for businessmen looking for avenues to multiply their fortunes.

"Investment from countries and corporations in their Expo participation is often significant and it is critical that we provide an after-use plan for some of their assets where possible," said Shaikh Ahmed, who is also President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Emirates airline and Chief Executive of the Emirates Group.

Potential investors could profit from this trend by starting a business in the emirate now and see it grow into a profitable undertaking when the mega event draws near.

WHAT MAKES EXPATS LOVE DUBAI
Name: Shradha Mohanty Designation: Manager, Gifts & Novelties, Watermelon Communications Nationality: Indian By Sandhya D'Mello Name: Rizwan Bajwa Designation: Owner, Oakks Walk Resturant and Cafe Nationality: Pakistani

"There is something in this city which made me embrace it and love it from day one. It's definitely home away from home for me and my family. I feel safe, secure and wanted here and in fact wait to come back after a few days of going back to India. I always have many anecdotes and stories to share about the city and how well it manages its systems and multi-cultural population. Hats off to Dubai for making us all feel so incredibly 'at home' always!"
Name: Johnaliza Nazareno Designation: Office: Manager, Stender & Partners Management Consulting Nationality: Filipino
"Dubai has the best quality of life and a really stronger economy. Job opportunities here are great and a tax free salary are some of perks of this country. You come across different nationalities learning about their language, culture and religion. Dubai is a perfect starting point to various destinations as it is so well situated which makes flying anywhere in the world easier than it is from most other regions. Dubai is a relatively for business, as has been illustrated in numerous international business surveys. Overall Dubai is a pretty safe place to live and raise children with one of the best education systems."

I am here in Dubai because of the job opportunities, favorable salary, tax free environment and the fact that Dubai or UAE in general is being considered as one of the safest countries in the world despite of being a home for millions of people from different origins, cultures and beliefs, UAE government maintains its peace and order. These characteristics are very difficult to find from other countries.
Name: Priyantha Brito Designation: Director, Business Development - Aviation Services Management Nationality: Sri-Lankan
I have been living here for almost 7 years and have witnessed how UAE stand against the recession in 2008. I plan to stay longer, if GOD wills it too. I am thankful to this country.

"Dubai is a place that is like a second home to so many different nationalities. I have been here for over 12 years and loved every bit of seeing how the city has progressed over the years. It is a perfect example of how a great vision can transform a city in just a few years and become a place that everyone wants to migrate to. Most of it also has to do with how authorities here ensure the safety of its residents. And I think that is a feature I love the most."

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Dubai a global financial and trade hub offering tons of opportunities to those who dare to dream big. With some of the best business and employment opportunities, it's no surprise Dubai attracts expats from all corners of the world. If you're looking to work in a cosmopolitan city that is strategically located on the global map, look no further.