Exploring Salary Brackets for Different Nationalities in the UAE: An Analysis of Compensation Structures and Equity

Abstract

The UAE has one of the world's highest net migration rates, and the number of workers from countries such as India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, and the USA, among others, has increased significantly in recent decades (Burns, 2005). This study examines salary brackets for various nationalities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), focusing on compensation structures and equity. The UAE's cross-border mobility has resulted in the interaction of people with diverse languages, customs, and ethnic backgrounds. Although diversity has been shown to have several benefits, including enhanced employee creativity and competence, this recognition is often found more in theory than in actual practice. Understanding how salaries are structured among different nationalities is essential for recognizing discrepancies and supporting equitable compensation practices, especially given the diversified expatriate workforce in the United Arab Emirates. The study analyzes differences in salary ranges, benefits, and employment packages among various national groups through qualitative interviews with HR experts and workers. The various nationalities in the UAE that have a significant influence on salary levels, which are determined by work position, tenure, and negotiation ability, would greatly benefit from the study's findings. The study highlights significant areas in which discrepancies remain and makes recommendations for improving pay equity, including modifications to policies along with greater pay structure transparency. Employers and leaders in the United Arab Emirates can benefit from the knowledge this study offers, as it contributes to the broader conversation on inclusion and equity in international recruiting practices.