Sharjah, while home to a range of industries and a growing business environment, is not as bustling or competitive as Dubai when it comes to job opportunities. I personally visited Sharjah on a visit visa on 03-03-2022 to explore job options. However, during my time there, I quickly realized that although the city has many companies, it does not have the same vast market or opportunities as Dubai.
Disadvantages of Job Hunting in Sharjah
1. Smaller Job Market
Sharjah, despite its economic growth, does not compare to Dubai’s expansive job market. While there are companies across different sectors, the number of opportunities in Sharjah is smaller, especially for those seeking positions with multinational companies. My experience showed that the job market here felt more limited, making it harder to find roles in industries like finance, technology, and high-end services that are common in Dubai.
2. Limited Salary Potential
Salaries in Sharjah tend to be lower than those offered in Dubai. Since the cost of living is also lower in Sharjah, salaries often reflect this difference. For those used to the higher wages that Dubai offers, Sharjah may not provide the same level of financial rewards. During my job search, I found that many positions offered lower pay, which can be a concern for people looking to support a family or save for long-term goals.
3. Fewer Multinational Companies
Unlike Dubai, which hosts the regional offices of numerous multinational corporations, Sharjah has fewer such companies. This limits opportunities for professionals seeking roles with global organizations or in high-end sectors. My visit made me realize that if you’re aiming for a career in a large multinational company or looking for a highly competitive, dynamic work environment, Sharjah may not be the best fit.
4. Less Networking Opportunities
Dubai is known for its vast expat community and networking events that provide countless opportunities to connect with professionals from around the world. In Sharjah, while there are opportunities, the networking scene is not as vibrant or as varied. This can be a disadvantage for job seekers who rely on building connections and gaining industry insights through events and social networks.
5. Slower Career Growth
Since Sharjah is not as large a commercial hub as Dubai, career growth can be slower. The city is home to more SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) than large corporations, which means fewer chances for upward mobility or career advancement. Based on my experience, I found that growth opportunities in Sharjah seemed more limited, especially for professionals looking to move up quickly in their careers.
6. Lesser Variety in Job Types
The diversity of industries in Sharjah is not as wide as in Dubai. While there are jobs in sectors like manufacturing, education, and healthcare, positions in high-tech, media, luxury services, or finance are fewer. This can be limiting for professionals with specialized skills looking for niche positions. I noticed that, despite the availability of jobs, the variety of roles wasn’t as expansive as what I had expected.
Conclusion
Job hunting in Sharjah can offer some opportunities, but it also comes with significant challenges. While it is a great place for those looking for a more affordable lifestyle, the job market isn’t as large or diverse as Dubai’s. After visiting Sharjah and experiencing it firsthand, I found it to be a more subdued market with fewer multinational companies, lower salaries, and slower career growth. If you’re considering Sharjah for your job search, it’s important to understand its unique dynamics and think carefully about whether it aligns with your professional aspirations.
