Why On-Site Work Remains in High Demand in the Middle East: Insights

The Middle East remains a hotbed for economic growth, particularly in construction, oil & gas, and engineering sectors.

With numerous mega-projects underway, the need for skilled labor remains high. While remote work has gained popularity globally, on-site work continues to be in high demand in the region.

So, why does on-site work remain a preferred option in the Middle East, especially in these industries?

In this article, we’ll look into why on-site work remains essential in the region and how recruitment in the Middle East is being adapted to meet the demands.

The Role of On-Site Work in the Middle East's Booming Industries

Key Industries Driving On-Site Work

In the Middle East, certain industries inherently demand physical presence. These industries have seen continuous growth, which in turn drives the need for on-site labor. Let’s look at some of the key sectors:

• Construction & Engineering: With massive infrastructure projects like skyscrapers, bridges, and roads, on-site workers are crucial for their successful execution. Workplace leaders constantly emphasize the need for skilled workers on the ground, ensuring that these large-scale developments stay on track.

• Oil & Gas: The Middle East remains a major hub for the oil and gas industry, which requires employees to work on-site at drilling rigs, refineries, and offshore platforms. Without on-site presence, operational and safety standards in these high-risk sectors could not be maintained.

• Healthcare & Hospitality: Despite the growth of telemedicine and online services, healthcare professionals, particularly those working in hospitals, still need to be physically present. Similarly, roles in hospitality, such as hotel staff, restaurant workers, and event planners, demand a presence on-site to ensure quality service.

Skilled Labor Demand

As Recruitment in the Middle East evolves, the demand for skilled labor continues to surge. On-site roles often provide invaluable experience and hands-on training, something that cannot be replicated through remote work.

Workers on-site develop specialized skills, which are essential in maintaining quality and safety standards, particularly in the construction and energy sectors.

For employers, on-site positions ensure better monitoring and alignment with project timelines.

This is why companies in the area turn to the best recruitment consultants in the Middle East, to find professionals with the technical skills and hands-on experience necessary for these critical roles.

The Stability Factor: Why Employees Prefer On-Site Roles

A Desire for Job Stability

For many employees in the Middle East, job stability is a top priority. Research suggests that a majority of employees in the region prefer on-site work due to the stability it offers. On-site roles typically come with structured working hours, a clear division between work and personal life, and a regular paycheck— all of which are critical components for workers seeking long-term security.

According to a survey by WTW, 70% of employees in the UAE and Saudi Arabia prioritize job stability, with many seeing on-site roles as a more reliable option compared to remote jobs that may lack clear boundaries or career advancement opportunities.

This stability is particularly important in sectors like construction and oil & gas, where workers may prefer the predictable nature of on-site work compared to the uncertainties of remote roles.

Work-Life Balance and Career Advancement

Another reason on-site work is still so popular in the region is the work-life balance it offers. Many employees appreciate the clear separation between their personal and professional lives that on-site roles provide.

Additionally, working in a physical office or project site often leads to better networking opportunities and career advancement.

• A Gensler Middle East Workplace Survey 2023 revealed that 62% of employees in Saudi Arabia and the UAE value the relationships they build on-site. For many, this face-to-face interaction is key to fostering collaboration and enhancing team dynamics, ultimately contributing to career growth and visibility.

Technological Limitations and Security Concerns

Infrastructure and Technological Constraints

While many sectors around the world have embraced remote work, certain industries in the Middle East are still constrained by technological limitations.

For example, remote work in construction or oil & gas is impractical due to the need for specialized equipment, tools, and technologies that require physical presence.

• A recent report from PwC noted that only 17% of construction professionals believe that digital tools can fully replace the need for on-site work.

The absence of sufficient digital infrastructure in more remote areas, such as oil rigs or construction sites, further emphasizes the necessity for on-site roles to ensure efficient operations.

Security and Compliance

Security is another major reason why on-site roles remain in high demand. In industries dealing with sensitive data or high-risk operations, such as defense and government projects, on-site presence allows for better control over sensitive information, compliance with regulations, and immediate troubleshooting. Remote work doesn’t always provide such levels of oversight that is necessary in such environments.

Cultural Factors: Trust, Relationships, and Face-to-Face Communication

Cultural Preferences for On-Site Engagement

In many Middle Eastern cultures, trust and personal relationships are highly valued. On-site work fosters these personal connections, which are often essential for success in the region.

• Michael Page Middle East reports that 78% of employers in the region still prefer on-site workers for their ability to build rapport quickly and effectively. Relationships are key to business success, especially in industries that require collaboration and teamwork.

On-Site Leadership and Supervision

On-site roles also provide better opportunities for leadership and supervision. For example, managers in construction and oil & gas sectors can provide direct oversight, making sure that safety standards, deadlines, and quality requirements are met. This level of engagement is essential for successful project completion and smooth operations.

Conclusion

Despite the global shift towards remote work, on-site work remains indispensable in the Middle East, particularly in industries like construction, oil & gas, and healthcare. The demand for on-site workers is driven by factors such as job stability, cultural preferences, technological constraints, and the need for direct oversight.

For businesses recruiting in the Middle East, understanding the enduring importance of on-site roles is crucial for employers and job seekers alike.