UAE Ranks as World’s Second Hardest-Working Country
UAE Residents Balance Long Work Hours with Vibrant Social and Entertainment Activities
UAE Ranks as World’s Second Most Hardworking Country
People worldwide work hard for better lifestyles, but some countries have more dedicated citizens and expatriate residents than others.
According to a recent report by communications agency duke+mir, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has ranked as the world’s second most hardworking country. Residents in the Emirates work an average of 50.9 hours per week, with 97 percent of respondents revealing that they go out every month looking for entertainment. This high level of commitment to both work and leisure underscores the country’s unique ‘work-hard, play-hard’ culture.
The study, which included a poll of more than 1,000 people, also found that seven in 10 people in the UAE dine out every single week. This statistic highlights the vibrant social scene and the importance of dining experiences in Emirati culture.
Top Forms of Entertainment:
- Watching movies at home – 83 percent
- Watching live sports at home – 68 percent
- Dining out – 68 percent
- Playing sports – 66 percent
- Reading books – 64 percent
- Playing video games – 53 percent
- Watching live sports events in-person – 37 percent
- Going to the cinema – 24 percent
- Attending a live performance event – 23 percent
The study shows that 81 percent of UAE residents have paid subscriptions, with nearly a third considering canceling them, potentially resulting in millions of dirhams in dormant accounts. This reflects the dynamic nature of consumer behavior in the UAE, where residents are constantly evaluating their entertainment options.
The duke+mir study also tapped into the UAE’s growing youth interest, comprising three-quarters of the population aged 18–24 who are actively engaged in sports. This demographic’s involvement in physical activities highlights the emphasis on a balanced lifestyle that combines both mental and physical well-being.
Mir Murtaza Khurshid, Partner at duke+mir, praised the report’s findings as a testament to the UAE’s global reputation for hard work. He noted, “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.”
Top Five Hardworking Countries in the World:
- Bhutan
- UAE
- Lesotho
- Congo
- Qatar
These findings underline the UAE’s position not just as a leading global business hub but also as a center of cultural and social dynamism. The commitment of its residents to maintaining a strong work ethic while also enjoying a rich array of entertainment options is a defining characteristic of life in the UAE. The nation’s ability to balance these aspects so effectively is a key factor in its continued growth and appeal on the global stage.
People worldwide work hard for better lifestyles, but some countries have more dedicated citizens and expatriate residents than others.
According to a recent report by communications agency duke+mir, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has ranked as the world’s second most hardworking country. Residents in the Emirates work an average of 50.9 hours per week, with 97 percent of respondents revealing that they go out every month looking for entertainment. This high level of commitment to both work and leisure underscores the country’s unique ‘work-hard, play-hard’ culture.
The study, which included a poll of more than 1,000 people, also found that seven in 10 people in the UAE dine out every single week. This statistic highlights the vibrant social scene and the importance of dining experiences in Emirati culture. The UAE’s bustling culinary landscape offers a variety of options, from luxurious fine dining to casual eateries, catering to both locals and expatriates. This frequent dining out not only reflects the economic prosperity of the nation but also the social nature of its residents who value communal activities and socializing.
Top Forms of Entertainment:
- Watching movies at home – 83 percent
- Watching live sports at home – 68 percent
- Dining out – 68 percent
- Playing sports – 66 percent
- Reading books – 64 percent
- Playing video games – 53 percent
- Watching live sports events in-person – 37 percent
- Going to the cinema – 24 percent
- Attending a live performance event – 23 percent
These statistics indicate a diverse range of interests among UAE residents, showcasing a balanced lifestyle where both physical and recreational activities are equally prioritized. The high percentage of people watching movies and live sports at home suggests a strong home entertainment culture, possibly supported by the high rate of paid subscriptions.
The study shows that 81 percent of UAE residents have paid subscriptions, with nearly a third considering canceling them, potentially resulting in millions of dirhams in dormant accounts. This reflects the dynamic nature of consumer behavior in the UAE, where residents are constantly evaluating their entertainment options. The high rate of subscription services also indicates a tech-savvy population that enjoys on-demand content and values the convenience it offers.
The duke+mir study also tapped into the UAE’s growing youth interest, comprising three-quarters of the population aged 18–24 who are actively engaged in sports. This demographic’s involvement in physical activities highlights the emphasis on a balanced lifestyle that combines both mental and physical well-being. The UAE has invested heavily in sports infrastructure and promotes various sporting events, which encourages young people to stay active and healthy.
Mir Murtaza Khurshid, Partner at duke+mir, praised the report’s findings as a testament to the UAE’s global reputation for hard work. He noted, “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.”
Top Five Hardworking Countries in the World:
- Bhutan
- UAE
- Lesotho
- Congo
- Qatar
These findings underline the UAE’s position not just as a leading global business hub but also as a center of cultural and social dynamism. The commitment of its residents to maintaining a strong work ethic while also enjoying a rich array of entertainment options is a defining characteristic of life in the UAE. The nation’s ability to balance these aspects so effectively is a key factor in its continued growth and appeal on the global stage.
The diverse entertainment preferences of UAE residents, from watching movies and live sports at home to dining out and playing sports, reflect a society that values both relaxation and physical activity. The frequent engagement in these activities indicates a populace that understands the importance of unwinding and staying active amidst their busy work schedules.
The report also sheds light on the economic implications of the entertainment habits of UAE residents. With a significant portion of the population subscribing to paid entertainment services, there is a substantial market for digital content providers. However, the potential cancellation of these subscriptions could lead to a reevaluation of consumer engagement strategies by service providers to retain their customer base.
Moreover, the study highlights the social fabric of the UAE, where dining out and attending live events are integral to community building. These activities provide opportunities for social interaction, fostering a sense of belonging and community among the diverse population. The UAE’s strategic investments in entertainment and recreational infrastructure support these social activities, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The UAE’s ranking as the second most hardworking country in the world is a reflection of its residents’ dedication to their professional and personal lives. The nation’s ability to offer a balanced lifestyle with ample opportunities for both work and play makes it an attractive destination for expatriates and locals alike. This blend of hard work and vibrant social life is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to fostering a thriving, dynamic society.
