Struggling western health systems are recruiting top-class UAE nurses

The global healthcare industry is facing a significant challenge as well-trained nurses from the UAE are being recruited to work in understaffed western healthcare systems. Recruiters are concerned about a potential shortage of qualified staff in the region due to the attractive opportunities being offered to nurses in countries like Australia, the US, and Europe.

On International Nurses’ Day, celebrated on May 12, the focus is on the economic benefits of healthcare in creating healthy communities. However, hospitals in the UAE are raising concerns about the pulling power of the region’s nursing profession. Paths to citizenship, free education, competitive pay, and shorter working hours are enticing propositions for nurses looking to relocate from the GCC to other countries.

According to experts, the UAE’s highly skilled nursing workforce is in high demand globally, especially in nations that have seen a significant exodus of nurses in recent years. The International Council of Nurses (ICN) reports that a large number of nurses have left the US healthcare system since 2020, with more expected to depart by 2027. Similarly, the UK and Switzerland have also reported increases in nurses leaving the industry.

Mohamad Fakih, chief nursing officer at Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, highlights the challenges of retaining nurses in the UAE due to the high demand for nurses in western countries. He mentions that agencies, hospitals, and government authorities are facilitating the recruitment of nurses from different parts of the world by offering extra benefits and opportunities for permanent residency.

India and the Philippines are the main talent pools from which nurses are recruited globally. The UAE, with its diverse population and advanced healthcare facilities, is a popular destination for healthcare staff to gain expertise. Despite offering golden visas to nurses, some hospitals in the UAE are still struggling to retain staff.

Recruitment of nurses is a global challenge, with many countries relying heavily on international recruitment to fill vacancies. The ICN reports that 93% of the 50,000 nurses recruited by the UK’s NHS were from international sources. Countries marked by the World Health Organization as having significant health workforce challenges are seeing a large number of nurses leaving for better opportunities abroad.

In conclusion, the nursing profession plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, and it is essential for countries to invest in nursing staff to address the global shortage of qualified nurses. As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, it is imperative to recognize the value that nurses bring to society and ensure that they are adequately supported and appreciated for their contributions.