75% of UAE residents expecting a bonus in 2025 – survey

Three quarters of UAE residents expect to receive a bonus in 2025, up from 68 per cent in 2024, according to a new survey by YouGov.

Findings of the survey, which was commissioned by Zurich International Life Limited, indicate a growing sense of financial confidence among UAE residents.

The survey also highlights that 68 per cent of UAE residents feel secure about their current financial situation. Those who have sought professional financial advice report even higher confidence levels, with 79 per cent stating they feel better prepared for the future. 

The trend of seeking expert guidance is on the rise, with financial advisory consultations increasing from 39 per cent in 2024 to 55 per cent in 2025.

“As financial awareness continues to grow across all generations, it’s clear that UAE residents are becoming more proactive in managing their money,” said David Denton-Cardew, head of propositions at Zurich International Life Middle East. 

“Younger age groups, in particular, are leading the way, signalling a shift toward long-term planning and financial stability being ingrained in culture,” he added.

The results come amid reports that the UAE economy is growing strongly. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Economy revealed that the UAE’s non-oil sector expanded by 4.5 per cent to Dhs987bn for the first nine months of 2024.

Overall, the UAE’s real GDP grew by 3.8 per cent in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, reaching Dhs1.3tn, according to the Ministry of Economy’s latest economic data.

Read more: Non-oil sector now makes up nearly 75% of UAE’s economy

Saving bonuses, investing in the future

The survey underscores a measured approach to finances, with 68 per cent of respondents planning to save at least a portion of their bonus. 

Among them, 55 per cent are focused on future investments, 46 per cent are building emergency funds, and 38 per cent are saving for their children’s education.

At the same time, spending remains a priority. Sixty per cent of those using their bonus plan to allocate funds for travel and holidays, while 27 per cent intend to invest in skill-building, reflecting a trend towards personal and professional development.

Generational shifts in financial planning

Younger UAE residents are increasingly prioritising savings. Thirty-one per cent of Gen Z (18-24) plan to save their entire bonus, highlighting their strong focus on financial security. Millennials (25-34) follow closely, with 63 per cent opting to save all or most of their bonus.

Meanwhile, 52 per cent of those aged 45 and above prefer to save most rather than all of their bonus, indicating a more flexible financial strategy.

Retirement planning on the rise

Confidence in retirement planning is growing, with 75 per cent of UAE residents optimistic about having enough funds for their later years.

However, 61 per cent believe that Dhs5m or less is sufficient for retirement, suggesting a gap in financial awareness. The survey also found that 65 per cent rely on workplace savings or gratuity, despite the risks of overestimating their long-term value.

While optimism is high, financial experts stress the need for structured savings and proactive investment strategies to ensure long-term security.