UAE Professionals Struggle with Work-Life Balance

The study reveals that 76% of employees believe their work-life balance has worsened since the pandemic, with 59% finding it difficult to switch off. The pressure to stay connected outside of work hours is also rising – 90% of employeesadmit they regularly respond to work emails and calls after hours, contributing to mounting stress and burnout.

While remote work has been widely adopted, it hasn’t necessarily made things easier – 60% of professionals say that working from home has actually made it harder to disconnect. The competition in the UAE’s job market is another factor, as an increasing number of foreign professionals enter the workforce, driving up expectations and workloads.

According to the 2025 Employees Sentiment Study by Aon, work-life balance programs are now among the top three benefits UAE employees value most. Younger workers, in particular, are pushing back against excessive work demands, with 50% saying they would consider quitting if they couldn’t achieve a healthier balance.

The study also highlights shifting attitudes toward work schedules – nearly half of UAE employees would accept a pay cut for a shorter workweek, with 66% of younger professionals favoring a four-day workweek.