A recent salary survey conducted by the leading Middle East job platform in collaboration with a prominent market research organization revealed employee perceptions regarding salaries and benefits across the region. The findings indicate that approximately two-thirds (63%) of respondents from the Middle East and North Africa believe their salaries are either increasing or remaining stable in their home countries.
Salaries and Benefits in Kuwait
Regarding compensation, 27% of respondents in Kuwait reported that their current pay package includes a base salary plus additional benefits, while 54% said it consists only of a base salary, and 19% indicated it includes base salary, benefits, and commissions. Additionally, 41% mentioned that their employers provide financial compensation for overtime work.
When asked about preferred pay structures, over half (54%) of respondents prefer a fully fixed salary structure, while 36% favor a partially fixed model that incorporates variable components such as commissions and incentives.
The most common benefits received by employees in Kuwait include personal health insurance (27%), bonuses (23%), and travel allowance (21%).
On another note, 63% of respondents confirmed that their companies currently offer a year-end bonus.
Commenting on the results, Ula Hadad, Human Resources Administration Manager at the job platform, stated: "The 2021 salary survey provides valuable insights for both employers and employees, covering current pay structures and levels, salary satisfaction rates, and perceptions related to living costs and expenses. It offers a comprehensive view of the labor market and overall economy. Employers today must pay close attention to the total compensation packages they offer and consider employee expectations around pay."
Factors Enhancing Loyalty
Interestingly, 34% of respondents said their loyalty to their company is not tied to their salary, while 36% indicated their loyalty is significantly influenced by the salary offered. Beyond compensation, daily responsibilities (31%), career advancement opportunities (26%), and colleagues (24%) were identified as key loyalty drivers.
When asked about their professional plans over the next 12 months, 54% of respondents in Kuwait said they would seek a better position within their current industry, while 21% expressed intentions to explore opportunities in a different sector.
Savings and Expenses
Regarding quality of life, three-quarters (75%) of respondents in Kuwait believe they are financially better off or living at a similar level to peers in their country.
Moreover, more than six in ten respondents (62%) said they are able to save part of their monthly income, while 44% reported transferring up to 50% of their savings back to their home country.
About the Respondents
Thirty percent of respondents in Kuwait have been working in the same sector for up to six years. Additionally, 61% have worked at their current company for six years or less, with 25% having been employed there for less than three years.
When asked about their current career stage, 33% said they are in the middle phase of their professional journey, while 25% described themselves as being at a relatively high level but not yet at the top position.
From the research team’s perspective, Zafar Shah, Research Director at the market research firm, said: "This salary survey sheds light on the labor market from the employee's perspective, helping job seekers understand their value in today’s job market and enabling employers to identify what truly supports both organizational goals and employee well-being. Employers aiming to stand out should invest in career development and training opportunities—factors that, alongside salary, significantly boost employee loyalty."
Data for the Middle East and North Africa salary survey were collected online between March 3 and March 15, 2021, with participation from 2,524 individuals across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Sudan, and other countries.
