Nearly 80% of UAE professionals report unofficially expanded roles due to rapid AI adoption. With longer hours becoming common, companies must address these 'shadow workloads' to maintain team efficiency and retention.
Our retelling · details in the original publication
Data from Robert Walters reveals that 79% of UAE professionals have taken on duties outside their original scope over the past year. This shift comes as companies adapt to changing business needs and employees increasingly use artificial intelligence tools to handle broader responsibilities.
The numbers are specific. Nearly half of the respondents, or 49%, are working longer hours to cope with the changes. Another 25% are trying to delegate additional tasks where possible. Surprisingly, only 17% of employees have actually spoken to their managers about the increase in workload.
This trend creates "shadow workloads". Additional responsibilities accumulate without formal changes to job descriptions or contracts. While AI tools are meant to optimize operations, the transition phase often requires staff to learn complex systems and manage new data flows without extra support.
Business owners should pay close attention to this dynamic. Unrecognized extra effort often leads to burnout and higher turnover. If your team is using AI, ensure their formal roles evolve alongside their technical capabilities to maintain morale and productivity.
It is crucial for companies operating in the UAE to align internal policies with the realities of the modern workplace. Review job descriptions regularly and open communication channels with staff to ensure that expanded responsibilities are acknowledged and rewarded appropriately.
Details are in the original publication.
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