UAE Workforce Grew 2.5% in Early 2026, but Migrant Workers Face Disproportionate Layoffs

UAE workforce data shows 2.5% growth in Q1 2026 with strong job creation (Gulf News, May 18). Yet the New York Times reported July 17 that Dubai's low-wage migrant workers in hospitality and retail face mounting layoffs and salary cuts as the Iran war disrupts the emirate's economy. The aggregate figures mask concentrated harm among workers lacking safety nets or mobility.