ABU DHABI // Emiratisation in the airline and tourism industries is progressing at too slow a rate because of the working hours and pay.
Officials said that although perceptions were beginning to change, more initiatives were needed to make careers in these fields more attractive to Emiratis, reported Al Ittihad, The National's Arabic sister newspaper.
Mona Waleed, deputy chief of recruitment at Etihad Airways said: “The main reasons behind Emiratis’ reluctance to work in the airline industry are the long working hours and the numerous requirements, as opposed to the public sector that offers short working hours. The salaries are also lower in comparison with the public sector.
“The problem is that many people are looking for high salaries and high positions at the beginning of their careers, rather than aiming to learn and acquire a rich practical experience and building a career, regardless of the value of the offered salary. This highlights the need for intensified campaigns to raise awareness on the importance of the quest for experience at the beginning of any professional career.”
Etihad Airways offers many opportunities for UAE nationals who wish to progress their career and gain experience, she said.
Nasser Al Reyami, head of tourism standards at the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, said wages were the most important challenge that Emiratisation faces in the tourism sector. He said university graduates expected high salaries that matched the public sector.
The company hoped to recruit 200 Emirati nationals in its overseas offices by the end of this year.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
