An independent survey commissioned by Thales indicates that almost all (99%) Emirati and expatriate respondents said they would feel proud knowing their contribution supports national development objectives.
This survey identified a strong alignment between Emirati workforce expectations and the UAE’s industrial localisation agenda, with more than 8 in 10 of UAE nationals saying they want to be part of technologies advancing the ‘Made in the Emirates’ ecosystem.
Nearly 90% of respondents emphasised the importance of products and technologies being developed locally, reflecting growing expectations around national capability building as the UAE accelerates its transition toward a knowledge and innovation-driven economy under ‘We the UAE 2031’.
The YouGov survey conducted among more than 1,000 respondents across the UAE, including 65% Emiratis and 35% UAE expatriates, shows a clear sense of shared priorities. Among Emirati respondents and UAE expats, 92% and 87% respectively agreed that sustained investment in local talent and advanced technologies is essential for the country’s long-term economic competitiveness.
The survey also reflects rising expectations for corporate participation in national resilience and sovereignty. More than three quarters of all respondents (77%) said it is important for companies to support national independence in areas such as defence, digital security and critical infrastructure, underscoring the role of industry in strengthening national resilience.
Talent Development and Industrial Capability
When asked where companies should focus to advance the UAE’s industrial ambitions, Emirati respondents and UAE expats prioritised developing a skilled local talent pool. Emiratis also emphasised on building homegrown technology and innovation capacity, while UAE expats stressed on the importance of promoting environmental sustainability and resource management. These priorities align with national programmes such as Operation 300bn, which aims to strengthen domestic industrial output and technological competitiveness.
The findings also highlight growing expectations around expertise localisation, with nearly 70% of Emirati respondents and 65% of UAE expats stating it is essential for multinational companies operating in the UAE to develop advanced technical and engineering capabilities locally, particularly as emerging industries scale.
For Emirati talent, long-term career success is closely linked to practical exposure and hands-on development. Respondents identified training programmes in industrial technologies (43%) and networking opportunities with industry experts (43%) as the most valuable enablers for professional growth.
In support of these priorities, Thales operates its ‘Early Careers Programme’, a one-year graduate training initiative designed to equip young Emiratis with technical skills, leadership capabilities, and applied industry exposure, aligned with the UAE’s future skills’ agenda.
Looking ahead, respondents anticipate significant technological change shaping the UAE’s economy and labour market. Half the UAE residents believe Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies will drive job creation and economic diversification over the next decade. AI was cited by 65% as the most transformative technology for daily life in the next five years, followed by cybersecurity at 49%.
Despite the pace of change, confidence in national education and training pathways is strong. 73% of Emiratis said they feel prepared for future workforce demands, reflecting growing trust in programmes designed to equip talent with emerging technology skills.
Commenting on the findings, Pascale Sourisse, CEO of Thales International said: “It is truly remarkable that 99% of Emiratis proudly connect their personal contributions to national development, showcasing their deep investment in and drive to shape local technologies. This national spirit marks a clear demand for investment in local engineering capabilities, skills development, and technology transfer, highlighting the vital role that companies must play in building advanced local expertise. Thales is honoured to stand as a partner in this journey, contributing to the UAE’s technological sovereignty and nurturing a future brilliantly led by its motivated talent.“
As the UAE advances its position as a hub for advanced industries, Thales continues to expand its contribution through local research and development, technology transfer and national talent development. This includes its radar manufacturing facility developed in partnership with Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, which will produce advanced Ground Master series air-surveillance radars in the UAE. Scheduled to become fully operational by 2027, this facility will support sovereign manufacturing capability, specialised Emirati expertise, and industrial depth.