Migrant workers

Labour migration, skills development and the future of work in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries

This paper maps in broad terms the present and future demand for migrant workers in the GCC countries, particularly those from Asian countries of origin, by highlighting key trends as well as the complex government challenges, constraints, and responses in a globalized world.

This paper maps in broad terms the present and future demand for migrant workers in the GCC countries, particularly those from Asian countries of origin, by highlighting key trends as well as the complex government challenges, constraints, and responses in a globalized world. Part II broadly explores future sectoral demand for migrant workers in light of economic, demographic and labour market trends. Part III presents the policy consequences of projected GCC skill requirements. Part IV examines the migration governance issues that will emerge as a result of this shift towards greater skills training and recognition. Part V offers some recommendations for governments of countries of origin and destination in the short- and long-term.