The YouGov survey was conducted among more than 1,000 respondents across the UAE
An independent survey commissioned by Thales indicates that almost all (99%) Emirati and expatriate respondents said they would feel proud knowing their contribution supports national development objectives.
This survey identified a strong alignment between Emirati workforce expectations and the UAE’s industrial localisation agenda, with more than 8 in 10 of UAE nationals saying they want to be part of technologies advancing the ‘Made in the Emirates’ ecosystem.
Nearly 90% of respondents emphasised the importance of products and technologies being developed locally, reflecting growing expectations around national capability building as the UAE accelerates its transition toward a knowledge and innovation-driven economy under ‘We the UAE 2031’.
Survey
The YouGov survey conducted among more than 1,000 respondents across the UAE, including 65% Emiratis and 35% UAE expatriates, shows a clear sense of shared priorities. Among Emirati respondents and UAE expats, 92% and 87% respectively agreed that sustained investment in local talent and advanced technologies is essential for the country’s long-term economic competitiveness.
The survey also reflects rising expectations for corporate participation in national resilience and sovereignty. More than three quarters of all respondents (77%) said it is important for companies to support national independence in areas such as defence, digital security and critical infrastructure, underscoring the role of industry in strengthening national resilience.
Priorities
In support of these priorities, Thales operates its ‘Early Careers Programme’, a one-year graduate training initiative designed to equip young Emiratis with technical skills, leadership capabilities, and applied industry exposure, aligned with the UAE’s future skills’ agenda.
“This national spirit marks a clear demand for investment in local engineering capabilities, skills development, and technology transfer, highlighting the vital role that companies must play in building advanced local expertise. Thales is honoured to stand as a partner in this journey, contributing to the UAE’s technological sovereignty and nurturing a future brilliantly led by its motivated talent,” explained Pascale Sourisse, CEO, Thales International.
