UAE residents are known for their strong work ethic, but they also know how to balance work and leisure. This is backed by research, as the UAE ranks as the world’s second hardest working country, according to a report by communications agency duke+mir.
According to the report, the UAE ranks as the world’s second hardest-working country, with residents working an average of 50.9 hours per week. Despite their busy schedules, 97% of residents make time for entertainment activities every month. The study, which surveyed over 1,000 residents, also revealed that seven out of ten people in the UAE dine out every week.
The duke+mir study included a commissioned survey of UAE residents and global statistics from the International Labour Organization (ILO). The ILO data showed that the UAE was only behind Bhutan for average hours worked per week. Lesotho in Africa, Congo in Africa and Qatar completed the top five.
Mir Murtaza Khurshid, Partner at duke+mir discussed the report’s findings, “This study highlights that the UAE is proudly one of the most hard-working countries in the world. Emirati nationals and expatriate workers are contributing to the UAE’s rapid growth and success, but also finding time to have fun and enjoy themselves. With some of the world’s most exciting entertainment options, it’s clear that the UAE is the global capital of ‘work-hard, play-hard’ culture.”
Here Are Other Key Finding Of The Reports
- Sports Participation: Two-thirds (66%) of UAE residents engage in sports weekly, with the figure rising to 75% among young adults aged 18-24.
- Outings: Weekly, 37% attend live sports events, 24% visit cinemas, and 23% enjoy live performances such as concerts or theatre shows.
- Home Activities: 83% watch movies and 68% follow live sports weekly from home.
- Subscriptions: 81% of UAE residents have one or more paid subscriptions, with nearly a third expressing a desire to cancel unused subscriptions.