Abstract

This study investigates workforce preparedness among Generation Z in the United Arab Emirates, aiming to identify current and emerging skills gaps and develop a strategic framework aligned with national agendas such as We the UAE 2031. Grounded in Human Capital Theory and Generational Theory, the research examines digital transformation, employability skills, and workforce development within the UAE’s knowledge-based economy. The study addresses three key research questions: What are the primary skills gaps affecting Gen Z workforce readiness? What systemic and institutional factors contribute to these gaps? How can a strategic framework enhance employability by 2030? A qualitative research design adopting an interpretivist approach is employed, drawing on secondary data sources including peer-reviewed journal articles, government reports, and international labor market studies. Strategic foresight tools—PESTEL analysis, Causal Layered Analysis (CLA), scenario planning, and backcasting—are applied to assess current conditions and explore plausible future developments. The findings indicate that, despite high levels of digital literacy and technological proficiency, Generation Z demonstrates significant gaps in soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, adaptability, and teamwork. These gaps are driven by structural challenges within the education system, limited collaboration between academia and industry, and rapidly evolving workplace expectations. The analysis also highlights deeper cultural assumptions that prioritize academic credentials over practical skill development, further reinforcing the skills mismatch. The study concludes that workforce readiness requires a holistic and integrated approach that combines technical competencies with essential behavioral skills. It proposes a strategic framework emphasizing education reform, stronger industry partnerships, flexible learning pathways including micro-credentials, and continuous upskilling supported by strategic foresight practices. The research recommends that policymakers, educational institutions, and organizations adopt coordinated strategies to align talent development with future labor market demands. Future research should incorporate primary data collection to capture stakeholder perspectives and employ longitudinal approaches to track workforce readiness over time. This study contributes to both academic scholarship and policy practice by offering a comprehensive, forward-looking framework for preparing a future-ready Gen Z workforce in the UAE.

Publication Date

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Professional Studies (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Graduate Programs & Research

Advisor

Ozcan Saritas

Comments

This thesis has been embargoed. The full-text will be available on or around 5/12/2027.

Campus

RIT Dubai

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