The UAE’s job market showed impressive momentum in April, with hiring growing at the fastest rate in nearly a year as businesses ramped up to meet rising demand and clear work backlogs.

Data from the latest S&P Global survey revealed that the country’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) held steady at 54.0 in April, matching March’s figure and staying well above the 50.0 line that signals growth. This stability reflects the ongoing strength of the non-oil private sector and steady business confidence.

New orders ticked up slightly, with the index for incoming work rising to 56.9 from 56.3 a month earlier, helped by stronger international demand—the highest recorded in five months. Companies pointed to fresh interest from overseas markets, a sign of the UAE’s growing appeal on the global stage.

Meanwhile, hiring picked up pace, with the employment index climbing to 51.4, its highest reading in nearly a year. Businesses reported bringing on more staff to ease workloads and keep up with new business, even as some faced challenges completing ongoing projects.

“Firms are adding staff to reduce backlogs and support growth,” said David Owen, Senior Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence. “Despite some challenges, companies remain upbeat about what’s ahead.”

That optimism is showing in business sentiment, which climbed to its highest level so far this year, underpinned by strong sales pipelines and solid market conditions.

Dubai’s private sector also expanded in April, though at a slightly slower rate, with its PMI slipping to 52.9 from 53.2. Still, businesses described a stable environment with steady demand.

Across the country, the private sector continues to show resilience, creating jobs and laying the groundwork for further growth as the year unfolds.