Three in five Emiratis quit work because of insensitive bosses, long working hours and unpopular uniforms, a survey shows, throwing another spanner into the works as the country tries to boost local representation in the workforce.The survey of more than 6,000 UAE nationals found that insensitivity to religious customs and dress codes and the absence of a mentor were the most frequently cited reasons for quitting, UAE daily the National reported on Tuesday.
"Within Emirati families there is a negative perception of certain commercial sectors, especially real estate and hospitality," said Kamraan Siddiqui, career adviser for the government-sponsored Emirates National Development Programme (ENDP).
The ENDP is holding its fourth Gulf Cooperation Council Nationalisation Summit.
"There is also a strong wish among nationals seeking employment to work within Emirati teams that understand traditional customs, etiquette and dress codes."
He said secure positions in government departments and Islamic banks were favoured as promotion was guaranteed after certain periods of service, and he said there was "a sense that they (Emiratis) are contributing to the development of the country."
The UAE government is pushing a programme of emiratisation which encourages the employment of the local population in certain sectors over expats, who form a majority of the country's workforce.
But recent reports have found emiratisation is failing as many turn down job offers, quit, or simply do not bother to apply.
"In the GCC there is too much emphasis placed on prestige and position," said Tommy Weir, executive director of the EM leadership centre and an expert in the recruitment of nationals. EM is a UK-based consultancy.
"If a national has a degree from Harvard or Cambridge, they expect to have a senior role in a company, even if that qualification does not provide them with the skills for that role. There is not enough emphasis placed on performance."