Business
Emiratisation in CX is natural call for this Dubai BPO
Data Direct Group urges UAE private sector to hire more local talent
Dubai-based leading BPO organisation Data Direct Group has urged the UAE’s private sector to follow the recent guidelines established by country’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and hire more local talent to boost Emirati employment rates.
The Ministry earlier this month announced that around 79,000 UAE nationals were working in the private sector. In September 2022, UAE’s authorities set out quotas for hiring Emiratis for the first time and gave private companies deadlines to reach them.
Private sector companies with at least 50 employees needed to ensure 3 per cent of their workforce was made up of Emiratis by July 7. Four days later on July 11, MoHRE announced a new update to the rules, whereby private companies with 20 to 49 employees are now included in the government’s Emiratisation drive with the new rules now applicable to companies across 14 economic sectors including property, education, construction and health care.
“This is the time to infuse the current market with a great new talent pool that is homegrown and localised. Emirati employment rate is projected to increase to 10 per cent in 2026 with a steady growth every year and it is the time for private businesses of the country to step up by reaching targets laid down by the MoHRE,” said Rajiv Dalmia, the chairman and founder of Data Direct Group that today employs close to 1,500 professionals from over 25 nationalities working in four countries.
“We achieved outstanding results in going beyond to fulfill the government’s targets for hiring Emirati talent. A major part of that success is due to the fact that Emiratisation has always been a part of our role to keep local clients happy while enhancing the customer experience.”
Rajiv Dalmia
As part of the company’s commitment to support the nation’s vision and foster local talent, Data Direct been implementing strategic initiatives since the company’s inception in 2002, and much before the UAE government started ‘customer happiness centres’ across the country to serve the local population. An internal audit by DDG after the first half of 2023 has shown staff representation among Emiratis at nearly 5-7 times the minimum required, especially in certain departments.
“We do not see Emiratisation as a minimum quota to achieve just for the sake of representation,” added Dalmia. “The more the merrier, and there is a constant endeavour to seek out local talent first before we look at other options.”
Elaborating on the MoHRE data, recruitment consultancy Qureos has said sectors such as business services (14% growth year on year), construction (13%), and commerce and repair services (10%) are among the new frontrunners in Emirati hiring, coming neck-to-neck with the traditional BFSI (banking, financial services and insurance) sector. Data Direct serves many clients in the services and banking sector.
Qureos data also suggests a massive 75% increase in college enrolment for banking studies. The graduates are due to be incorporated in the near future where the HR departments of companies such as Data Direct stand to benefit. “Employees within our team setup and familiar with the work culture at Data Direct Group provide good referrals to future employees. References are our best sources for talent,” said Nona Sharma, HR head at DDG.
“The accomplishment in surpassing Emiratisation targets is a testament to our commitment to the UAE’s socio-economic growth and vision for a prosperous future. By empowering local talent, we also strengthen our own organisational capabilities.”
DDG has been working with many government entities to enhance the customer experience during interactions. Meanwhile, the rise of Gulf countries’ economies has also seen a surge in hiring local talent. “A collaboration with Talabat in Bahrain, for instance, has happened due to our track record on this and their requirements to keep 100% staff local. In Oman, it is 80% of our strength while the highly cosmopolitan nature of UAE means we have about 35-40 locals who cater to clients, including key government agencies. Having talented local colleagues is not tokenism for us. They are, in fact, the guiding light for us in many cases,” Dalmia added.
Dubai offers a wide range of residential communities, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighbourhood, a vibrant city lifestyle or an affordable apartment with good transport links.
From waterfront towers to suburban communities with parks and schools, here’s a guide to some of the most preferred places to rent an apartment in Dubai for the long term.
Dubai Hills Estate: Family-friendly environment
Dubai Hills Estate has become one of the city’s most sought-after residential communities thanks to its green spaces, modern infrastructure and family-friendly environment.
Why renters choose Dubai Hills Estate
- Spacious apartments and villas.
- Parks, walking trails and playgrounds.
- Reputable international schools nearby.
- Dubai Hills Mall and healthcare facilities.
- Peaceful surroundings with easy access to major roads.
It’s particularly popular with expat families looking for long-term stability and a high quality of life.
Business Bay: Best for professionals
Business Bay remains one of Dubai’s top rental hotspots for professionals working in the city’s commercial districts.
Why live in Business Bay?
- Minutes from Downtown Dubai.
- Excellent access to Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai Metro.
- Modern high-rise apartments.
- Restaurants, cafés and nightlife.
- Popular with young professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
Its central location makes commuting convenient while offering an energetic urban lifestyle.
Downtown Dubai: If you want city living
If you want to live in the heart of Dubai, Downtown Dubai offers premium apartments surrounded by iconic attractions.
Highlights include:
- Walking distance to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.
- Luxury residential towers.
- Excellent dining and entertainment.
- Strong public transport connectivity.
- Vibrant lifestyle throughout the year.
Downtown is ideal for residents who enjoy living close to business, shopping and leisure destinations.
Dubai Marina: Home with a view
Dubai Marina remains one of the emirate’s most popular neighbourhoods for long-term renters.
Why choose Dubai Marina?
- Waterfront lifestyle.
- Dubai Metro and Tram connectivity.
- Wide selection of cafés and restaurants.
- Marina Walk and beach access.
- Modern apartments with premium amenities.
The area appeals to professionals and couples seeking convenience and an active social scene.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): Value for money
JVC has grown into one of Dubai’s fastest-expanding residential communities.
Residents enjoy:
- More affordable rents than many central areas.
- Parks and landscaped streets.
- Family-friendly atmosphere.
- Schools, supermarkets and fitness centres.
- New apartment developments with modern facilities.
It offers a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Dubai Silicon Oasis: Affordable living
Dubai Silicon Oasis is a popular choice for professionals, students and families looking for value.
Key advantages include:
- Competitive rental prices.
- Technology and business hub.
- Schools, clinics and shopping centres.
- Easy access to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
- Many buildings offer chiller-free apartments, helping reduce monthly utility costs.
The community combines residential, commercial and leisure facilities in one location.
International City: For budget renters
International City remains one of Dubai’s most affordable apartment markets.
Why it’s popular
- Low rental prices.
- Wide choice of studio and one-bedroom apartments.
- Restaurants and supermarkets nearby.
- Schools and healthcare facilities.
- Convenient access to major roads.
It’s well suited to first-time renters, singles and those looking to keep housing costs low.
Al Barsha: Convenience for all
Al Barsha offers a central location without the premium prices found in Downtown Dubai.
Benefits include:
- Close to Mall of the Emirates.
- Good Metro connectivity.
- Schools and healthcare facilities.
- Wide range of apartment options.
- Established residential community.
It remains a practical choice for families and working professionals alike.
What to consider before renting
Before signing a tenancy contract, consider:
- Your monthly rental budget.
- Distance to work or school.
- Public transport and road access.
- Nearby supermarkets, healthcare and schools.
- Building amenities such as gyms, swimming pools and parking.
- Utility costs, including whether the apartment is chiller-free.
- Payment terms, as many landlords require rent in one to four cheques.
Which area is right for you?
Your ideal location depends on your lifestyle and priorities.
- Best for families: Dubai Hills Estate, JVC
- Best for professionals: Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina
- Best for affordable living: Dubai Silicon Oasis, International City, Al Barsha
With communities to suit every budget and lifestyle, Dubai continues to offer long-term renters a wide variety of options across the city.
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