GCC labour outlook bright 

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The future looks bright for the GCC workforce as companies across the region predict salary increases for employees in the coming year, according to Mercer's 2012 Total Remuneration Survey.

In addition, the survey conducted in the six GCC markets highlighted that more than 70 per cent of surveyed organisations are anticipating growth within various departments as they look to accelerate recruitment in 2013.

In total, close to 500 firms across various industries were surveyed, with results forecasting a rise in salaries by five per cent in the UAE, 5.6 per cent in Qatar and six per cent in Saudi Arabia during 2013.

Anticipated pay increases during this period are expected to remain above forecasted inflation rates - 1.7 per cent in the UAE, four per cent in Qatar, 4.4 per cent in Saudi Arabia - generating real pay growth for the working population.

Aggressive recruitment strategies are expected to be put in place, with 60 per cent of companies surveyed looking to increase headcount by the end of the year, and 70 per cent of firms aiming to do the same in 2013.

Zaid Kamhawi, Mercer's IPS business leader in the Middle East, said while the results represent good news for the Gulf's positioning relative to other parts of the world, companies are still cautious about the impact of regional and global events on local economic activity.