The Middle East experiences a demographic surge, with young people as the fastest-growing segment, constituting about 60% of the population under 25. The region has a median age of 22, indicating a significant youth bulge with positive and negative implications.
While the youth demographic promises vitality and innovation, it poses a substantial employment challenge. The Middle East is projected to need 51 million new jobs to accommodate the influx of youths entering the labor market. Despite commendable employment creation, persistently high unemployment rates shadow the labor market’s overall health.
The working-age population (15 – 64 years) comprises over 55% of the total, reflecting the region’s dynamic labor force. In contrast, the school-age population (0 – 14 years) is the second-largest group, highlighting an ongoing demographic transition. Individuals aged 65 and above constitute a relatively modest 40% of the total population.
The imperative for employment growth surpassing the working-age population is evident. Each Middle Eastern country grapples with unique circumstances, but the overarching perspective suggests that, with strategic investment efforts and enhanced efficiency, all nations can absorb employment into the expanding labor force, mitigating unemployment.
