Supporting expat well-being: Why work-life balance should be a priority for employers in the UAE

Feb 24

VIWELL team

Last updated January 21, 2025

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, achieving a healthy work-life balance has become a top priority—especially for expatriates working in dynamic environments like the UAE. With the pressure to stay constantly plugged in, maintaining this balance has never been more challenging. Studies highlight that many expatriates experience significant stress due to the “always-on” culture, which can take a toll on their overall well-being.

In the UAE, expatriates make up a staggering 88.5% of the population, playing a critical role in industries such as construction, hospitality, and services. They are, without a doubt, the backbone of the region's workforce. However, this reliance on foreign talent comes with its own set of challenges—ranging from culture shock and financial pressures to visa uncertainties. As the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region continues to evolve, the question arises: how can HR and business leaders better support their expatriate workforce?

By understanding the unique hurdles faced by expatriates and creating a comprehensive support strategy, companies can improve employee satisfaction, boost retention, and create a healthier work environment. Let’s explore how businesses and HR leaders can create a supportive, balanced atmosphere for expatriates, and why this has become more important than ever.

The importance of work-life balance for expats in the UAE

The UAE is known for its high-energy work environment, which can often lead to an overwhelming work-life imbalance. The issue is particularly prominent among women expatriates, who, according to the 360 Well-Being Survey, have been disproportionately impacted by evolving work cultures. As work expectations have increased, women, especially those between the ages of 18 to 34, have been navigating added responsibilities that impact their personal lives.

Despite this, the survey found that 58% of women in the UAE show high resilience in managing these pressures, compared to 54% of men in the UAE and 43% of women globally. This data underscores that while the challenge is significant, many expats are successfully coping with it — but they need support to maintain their wellbeing and balance.

For employers, understanding this dynamic is critical to not only attracting and retaining talent but also ensuring that employees remain healthy, productive, and engaged.

How employers can support expat well-being: Practical solutions

As the demands of the workplace continue to increase, employers must take proactive steps to help expatriates maintain a healthy work-life balance. HR and business leaders can provide crucial support by creating policies and systems that not only alleviate stress but also ensure long-term wellbeing for their expat workforce. Here are several practical solutions to consider:

Provide access to digital well-being tools
In the age of digital health, employers can take advantage of well-being apps that help expatriates employees manage their overall health while on the job. Offering access to a comprehensive employee well-being solution can provide employees with a wide range of tools designed to help them manage stress, improve resilience, and track their health.
With features like employee assistance programs, wellness resources, steps challenges, and gamified features, an employee well-being app can act as a support system for employees. Additionally, such apps often include work-life balance tips, mindfulness resources, and personalized well-being content, which can be incredibly beneficial in supporting expats who may be feeling isolated or overwhelmed by their new environment.
Incorporating a well-being app into your company’s offering not only helps expats with immediate support, but also sends a clear message that the company values and cares for their long-term well-being.
Offer financial and retirement planning support
One of the top stressors for expatriates is financial uncertainty, especially regarding retirement planning and family finances. Expatriates may not always understand the local financial landscape, tax implications, or retirement options. Offering financial well-being resources, workshops can alleviate these concerns and help expats feel more secure.
Knowing that their financial future is in safe hands can reduce significant stress and allow expats to focus more on their work and personal wellbeing.
Encourage open communication and feedback
Employers should encourage an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their work-life balance concerns. Regular check-ins and open lines of communication can help identify issues that might not be immediately obvious. For example, expats might be hesitant to bring up challenges related to their personal lives or the pressures they are facing at work.

Support expat well-being today!

HR teams should equip managers with the conversation starters guide for effectively discussing well-being with employees. This resource can provide guidance on how to start a meaningful conversation about work-life balance, mental health, and stress management. Knowing that they have a framework for these sensitive conversations can help managers provide the right support and resources.

Supporting expat wellbeing is not just about implementing one-off initiatives—it’s about creating a long-term strategy that prioritizes mental health, work-life balance, and personal support. By offering flexible work arrangements, digital wellbeing tools, and open communication, employers can help their expat workforce thrive in both their professional and personal lives.

FAQs

Expatriates face challenges like cultural adjustment, isolation, unmet expectations, and stress. Mental health issues, preexisting conditions, and lack of support worsen these struggles. Clear support and guidance can improve their well-being and success.
Implement a wellbeing strategy, promote benefits, ensure inclusivity, provide preventative support, and utilize apps, technology to provide employee engagement support.
Businesses can help expat employees by offering mentor programs, family relocation support, and wellbeing programs. Additionally, providing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) ensures access to counseling and local professionals when needed.