BrazilThe role of consulting firms in shaping the future of talent migration
The Middle East, long a significant hub for global migration, is undergoing a period of dynamic transformation in its migration policies. Driven by economic diversification strategies and the pursuit of global talent, countries across the region are implementing significant reforms.
Beyond regional policy shifts, Middle Eastern governments have been influencing global migration discourse for some time. As active participants in international conversations on mobility, labor migration and human capital development, they have engaged with organizations such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations (UN) to promote ethical recruitment practices, labor mobility frameworks and regional integration.
Several countries are also playing pivotal roles in shaping regional and global dialogues on migration. The UAE’s chairmanship of the Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) in 2020, along with the establishment of platforms such as the Abu Dhabi Dialogue (ADD) and the more recent Doha Dialogue on Labor Mobility between the GCC and the African Union, highlight the region's commitment to fostering cooperation and addressing key migration challenges.
Finding a balance
Against this backdrop, countries in the Middle East are setting out ambitious national visions which directly impact the future of migration while also emphasizing the need to upskill the local workforce. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, for example, aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil by fostering a knowledge-based economy.
This has led to increased participation of Saudi nationals in high-skilled roles, notably a rise in women’s workforce participation from 20% in 2018 to 36% in 2024. Recent amendments to Saudi Arabia's labor law further demonstrate this commitment to modernization, enhancing worker rights and streamlining employer responsibilities.
Elsewhere in the GCC, similar national agendas such as the National Employment Strategy 2031 in the UAE, and the National Workforce Strategy in Qatar underscore the shift towards knowledge-based economies.
While more specific reforms, such as the 10-year Golden Visa program in the UAE, are effective in attracting international talent, investors and entrepreneurs, the priority remains to create a more balanced and sustainable labor market. In parallel, nationalization policies are becoming more concrete, creating a complex interplay between attracting international skills and fostering local talent.
In this evolving landscape, consulting firms with deep expertise in immigration have a vital role to play in mitigating risk by helping shape effective and sustainable migration policies.
A practical perspective
Consulting firms, particularly those specializing in immigration, possess a unique understanding of the multifaceted needs of governments, businesses and individuals navigating the migration landscape. They are at the forefront of interpreting evolving regulations, advising clients on compliance, and facilitating the movement of talent across borders in a mobile world.
This practical experience provides invaluable insights into the real-world impact of policies and the operational challenges of implementation.
Effective migration policies require more than just high-level strategic thinking; they demand a deep understanding of how policies translate into practice. Consulting firms can bridge the gap between policy design and implementation by offering practical guidance on operationalizing new programs, streamlining processes, and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and security. Their experience working with diverse clients, from multinational corporations to high-net-worth individuals, provides a nuanced perspective on the drivers of migration and the needs of different groups.
Furthermore, firms with a global reach can benchmark regional practices against international standards, identifying best practices and areas for improvement. This comparative analysis can inform policy as well as operational development and ensure that migration frameworks in the Middle East align with global trends while addressing the region's specific needs. The ability to draw on experiences from diverse jurisdictions is particularly valuable in a rapidly changing global migration landscape.
A people first conversation
The use of technology within the migration sphere will undoubtedly continue and evolve. GCC countries in particular have been leading the way in utilizing technology, including AI, in various aspects of the immigration process making it easier to file and process applications. Nonetheless, the human-centric nature of immigration should still be at the heart of policy discussions.
Consulting firms, through their direct interactions with migrants and businesses, can provide valuable insights into the human impact of policies. Understanding the drivers, motivations, challenges, and aspirations of foreign talent is crucial for developing policies that are not only effective but also equitable and sustainable.
Shaping the future of migration
As countries in the Middle East continue to embark on further developing their migration frameworks, collaboration among governments, the private sector and consulting firms will be critical to achieving sustainable and inclusive outcomes.
Consulting firms, with their deep understanding of migration dynamics and policy implementation, can play a crucial role in ensuring that these dialogues translate into effective, real-world strategies.
Ultimately, the success of migration policies in the Middle East will depend on a forward-thinking, collaborative approach. By working together, various stakeholders can build a migration ecosystem that not only meets the region's evolving labor needs but also enhances its global competitiveness.
About the author: Azeem Mohiuddin is partner at Fragomen, a globally-operating professional services firm dedicated to immigration and migration matters. Fragomen has multiple offices in the Middle East.
