Empowering Tomorrow: The UAE’s Transition from Oil to Talent

This study aims to identify the key skills and competencies needed by higher education graduates in the United Arab Emirates. The research methodology begins with identifying emerging sectors by reviewing the UAE’s latest strategic plans, using O*NET to determine the necessary skills and competencies, and validating these findings through a survey of key stakeholders. The results highlight the current shortfalls in higher education and suggest ways to address them. The implications of this research are significant for both the government and the higher education institutions in the UAE. Future research could expand by including a larger sample size and conducting in-depth interviews for more detailed insights.