APME Hiring Outlook Q3 2025, U.A.E. Leads the World at +48%

APME Powers Through

The hiring fervor in the Asia Pacific and Middle East (APME) is holding steady, with a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) for the third quarter of 2025 clocking in at a robust +28%. Now, you might shrug this off as just another number, but it's the same solid footing as last quarter and a 7-point leap from Q3 of the previous year, per the ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey.

With input from over 12,434 employers across 10 countries and territories, the survey offers a panoramic view of a region that's braving economic squalls and keeping its hiring sails full.

The U.A.E. isn't just holding its own; it's outshining the global hiring stage with a dazzling +48% NEO, surpassing the global average by a staggering 24 points. With India (+42%) and China (+28%) as its trusty sidekick performers, this trio is the unmissable headline act of the region.

Tech Takes the Hiring Crown

A glance under the hood reveals that Information Technology is leading the hiring charge with a staggering +38% NEO. Hot on its trail are Financials and Real Estate sectors at +31%, and not too far behind are Industrials and Materials, comfortable at +29%.

But that's not all. More than 6 in 10 companies in APME (63%) say they are increasing their investment in task or process automation. They're not just dipping toes but diving into new tech waters, ensuring their process gears run smoother and sharper.

What's Fueling the Job Surge?

The tale of APME's hiring landscape isn't just about sunny days. Economic challenges are making some waves, with 36% of employers attributing workforce cuts to these ripples.

Yet, it's not all gloom and doom. A commendable 40% of employers name company expansion as the top reason for adding staff. Businesses are staying spry, navigating with cautious optimism, and investing in long-term growth despite tough global winds.

François Lançon, ManpowerGroup's Regional President for Asia Pacific and the Middle East, said hiring sentiment in the region remains firm despite global trade headwinds. He said this consistency underscores the region's resilience, adaptability, and strategic focus on long-term growth, and called the U.A.E.'s top global ranking a testament to its economic agility, policy stability, and sustained investment in innovation and infrastructure.

As the hiring tides stay steady, APME remains that corner of the world where the career compass points to opportunity, even amidst the global uncertainties.

Since then, ManpowerGroup's Q4 2026 survey of 39,878 employers in 42 countries shows India leading all countries at 54%, Asia Pacific at 34%, and the U.A.E. at 41%.

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