A new study has revealed how IT certifications are transforming career prospects, with significant implications for the UAE’s fast-evolving digital workforce.

According to the 2025 Value of IT Certification Candidate Report by Pearson VUE, 82 per cent of certified professionals reported increased confidence in their career growth, and 63 per cent either received or expected a promotion after certification.

Meanwhile, local experts emphasised that as the country strengthens its position as a regional hub for innovation and digital transformation, certifications are clearly emerging as a vital asset, for individuals and organisations alike.

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They reiterate the UAE is aligned with these trends, and employers across the nation increasingly value certified skills in AI, cybersecurity, data, and cloud computing.

“In addition, 32 per cent received a salary increase, while 41 per cent were hoping for one — of those who did, nearly a third saw raises exceeding 20 per cent. These figures highlight the tangible value employers place on certified skills, reflecting a broader trend of prioritising certified talent for career advancement and financial rewards,” said Dr Gary Gates, Managing Director, Pearson VUE.

In the UAE, where the digital economy continues to accelerate, these insights mirror on-ground hiring practices.

Aws Ismail, a recruitment expert based in the UAE, noted, “From what we are seeing in the UAE job market, IT certifications are being recognised more than ever, especially in technical and rapidly evolving fields and industries.

“As a recruitment company, we’re seeing our clients request certifications more frequently, particularly in areas like cloud, cybersecurity, data, and AI. In many cases, I believe they’ve become a stronger indicator of how current and capable a professional truly is, as it shows continuous learning and upskilling.”

The report, based on insights from nearly 24,000 certified professionals, also found that 84 per cent plan to pursue additional certifications within the next 12 months — a sign that continuous upskilling is fast becoming a non-negotiable in the tech sector.

Gates added, “Certifications have a significant and measurable impact on employee performance, innovation, and work quality. 79 per cent of certified employees deliver higher quality work, while 70 per cent report increased efficiency, producing more in less time. Additionally, 76 per cent of certified individuals demonstrate a stronger ability to innovate and improve processes. Notably, 74 per cent have gained the skills necessary to perform tasks or fill roles that were previously beyond their capability.”

69% employers started, increased AI investments

This is particularly relevant to the UAE’s future workforce plans, as 69 per cent of global employers have started or increased AI-related investments, and local firms are following suit. Companies here are allocating training budgets and offering incentives to employees seeking to enhance their digital skills, recruiters explained.

“We’ve also seen how certifications positively impact team performance. Certified professionals tend to be more structured, bring clearer methodologies, and often take the lead in solving complex problems based on their recent training and upskilling… which naturally drives innovation and better outcomes for the entire team,” Ismail added.

Look beyond short-term ROI

The sentiment is echoed by Nadeem Ahmed, talent acquisition specialist at Sharjah Maritime Academy. “In today’s competitive and skills-driven workplace, organisations increasingly recognise IT certifications as critical indicators of competence, growth mindset, and technical readiness.”

“HR and Talent Acquisition teams often filter applicants using certification keywords for tech and digital roles. Certifications are viewed as a signal that an employee is ready for high-stakes or strategic assignments,” Ahmed added.

“CIO Magazine survey reports that 31 per cent of professionals received a 20 per cent salary increase after getting certified. Additionally, organisations conduct internal reviews showing how certified staff led or supported key initiatives.”

UAE-based employers are also learning to look beyond short-term ROI. As Ismail pointed out, “Employers are now understanding that upskilling doesn’t need immediate ROI. The value should be better performance, faster delivery, and less reliance on outside talent which meets long term company objectives, and this, in a fast-paced digital economy, is a smart investment.”

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