7 IT Career Opportunities Trending In Dubai

Dubai is known as one of the most exhilarating and innovative places to work in the world. It is jam-packed with some of the fastest-growing, most forward-thinking companies and organizations. As well as fantastic career opportunities, the city’s growing economy and excellent quality of life make it a popular place to begin or further a career and live life overseas.

The tech sector is very important in Dubai. The government is investing huge sums into driving progress and making Dubai the next Silicon Valley. Its aims include creating 10 $1 billion tech companies by 2031 and launching 4,000 driverless taxis by 2030. Plus there is the continuation of over 130 initiatives that are currently running to make Dubai a smart city.

You cannot doubt that the next decade in Dubai is set to be thrilling for tech and IT specialists. Here are seven roles currently trending in Dubai.

1.    Data scientist

Big data is now vital to progressive businesses. Companies are using it to provide insights that result in better service, streamlined operations and better-targeted marketing campaigns. Data scientists are thus vital to every forward-looking business and are in high demand in Dubai.

Data science involves managing, manipulating and interpreting data sets. Organisations are currently seeking highly skilled professionals who can create and work with data architecture and build statistical models. They must be able to use at least one of the market-leading data analysis and discovery platforms as well as computer languages like Python and distributed data tools such as Map/Reduce.

2.    Data strategist

Data strategists work closely with data scientists. Strategists are responsible for creating big data strategies, setting out roadmaps for implementation of these, and leading analysis. They are experienced, creative professionals who must navigate the use of data in complex, global organisations. These are exciting roles on the leading edge.

3.    Web developer

In 2021, there were approximately 250 startups launched in Dubai. With every business needing a web presence, developers are sought-after professionals. They build websites and apps from the ground up. However, they are responsible for managing and optimising website performance for established businesses, too.

Web developers are always in high demand in Dubai, regardless of whether they are career starters or highly experienced. There are usually multiple opportunities for back-end, front-end and full-stack developers.

4.    Cybersecurity specialist

The big data revolution means that businesses now hold a vast amount of data. This comes with great responsibility. It is vital that both data and intellectual property are kept safe. Leaks, hackers, viruses are all clear and present dangers.

Cybersecurity specialists work to prevent attacks and accidents. They manage and analyse potential threats found through surveillance and data intelligence. These professionals design, implement and monitor the necessary tools and frameworks for surveillance. They must also be primed to respond quickly and solve any problems that do arise. This is an exciting specialism for those who like to be kept on their toes.

5.    Digital marketing analyst

Digital marketing analysts are the driving force behind digital marketing strategy and content. They track performance and provide the insights needed by content creators. As such, digital marketing analysts are responsible for monitoring metrics and data from sources such as web traffic, SEO performance data and social media trends. 

A digital marketing analyst helps businesses stay ahead of the trends in a competitive, fast-moving market. Every Dubai business needs access to personnel who can help drive their digital marketing strategy, a vital way to reach new customers and build relationships with existing ones. As such, digital marketing professionals are in high demand in Dubai, working in every industry.

6.    Compliance officer

In Dubai’s banking and financial sectors, there are many openings for those specialising in compliance. They may have a variety of responsibilities that ultimately ensure that no financial crimes occur and all laws and regulations are adhered to. For instance, the role may involve supervising transaction monitoring to look for trends and potential risks.

A compliance officer may recommend remedial action and changes to policies and procedures. They are the link between regulatory bodies and government agencies. Therefore, this is a very important role in any business.

7.    Artificial intelligence specialist

Dubai’s investment in new technologies has created demand for artificial intelligence (AI) specialists. They might work in a huge range of industries, including automotive, medical and aeronautical, in in-house teams and as consultants. AI roles include building, implementing and monitoring algorithms for machine learning.

How to get the right IT role in Dubai: The practicalities

Dubai is home to tech staffing solutions providers who can provide the link between you and potential employers. Provide them with your CV as well as some information about the type of roles you would consider and they may be able to present you with a range of options, depending on your qualifications and experience.

You will see that a range of contract lengths are usually available in Dubai. Visas are easy to arrange and are matched to the type of contract you accept. Standard two-year mainland visas are commonplace amongst those working in IT. They may enter the country on a probationary 60-day e-visa so that they can get started in their role quickly. Their employment and residency visas are then processed. A three-year visa is also available for employers based in the TECOM area (Dubai Technology, E-commerce and Media Freezone).

It is also possible to enter Dubai on a three-month mission visa if you accept a very short-term contract. This is the most efficient and quick visa to arrange. Holders must exit after three months and cannot leave and come back or apply for a longer-term visa while this visa is in place.

Your agency or future employer will ensure that the right visa choice is made. They will handle the paperwork too, so there is very little for you to do. If you would like to work for an innovative Dubai-based company but cannot commit to travel, then there are also opportunities in remote teams in Dubai.

Dubai really is a very exciting yet straightforward place to find and accept work. Dubai’s employers look forward to your application.