A recent salary survey conducted by the leading Middle East job platform in collaboration with a leading market research organization revealed employee perceptions and insights regarding salaries and incentives offered by their employers across the Middle East and North Africa region. The survey found that approximately two-thirds (63%) of respondents in the region believe their salaries are either increasing or remaining stable in their country of residence.
Salaries and Benefits in Lebanon
Regarding compensation, 27% of respondents in Lebanon reported that their current pay package includes a base salary plus benefits, while 60% said it consists solely of a base salary, and 12% indicated it includes base salary, benefits, and commissions. Additionally, 30% of respondents mentioned that their companies provide financial compensation for overtime work.
When it comes to preferred pay structures, more than two-thirds (65%) of respondents favor a fully fixed salary structure, while 16% prefer a partially fixed structure that includes variable components such as commissions and incentives.
The most commonly reported employee benefits in Lebanon include transportation allowances (30%), personal health insurance (22%), bonuses (18%), and family health insurance (13%).
Commenting on the findings, Ula Hadad, Human Resources Administration Director 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 about living costs and expenses. This gives 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 employees' expectations regarding pay."
Factors Enhancing Loyalty
Interestingly, 43% of respondents said their loyalty to their company is not tied to their salary, while 19% indicated a strong connection between their loyalty and the salary provided by the company. Beyond pay, colleagues (30%), career advancement opportunities (28%), and workplace environment (27%) emerged as key loyalty drivers.
When asked about their professional plans over the next twelve months, 32% of respondents in Lebanon said they would be seeking a better position within their current industry, while 33% indicated they plan to look for improved roles in a different sector.
On quality of life, more than half of the respondents (54%) believe they are better off or living at a similar standard compared to peers in their age group within their country of residence.
About the Respondents
43% of respondents in Lebanon have worked in their current industry for up to six years, and 70% reported working at their current company for six years or less, with 30% having been employed there for less than three years.
When asked about their career stage, 26% said they are midway through their professional journey, while 34% described themselves as being at a relatively high level but not yet at the top position.
According to Zafar Shah, Research Director at the market research organization: "This salary survey offers a vital employee perspective on the labor market, helping job seekers understand their market value and enabling employers to identify what best supports both organizational goals and employee well-being. Employers aiming to stand out should invest in career development opportunities and training, which are among the most important factors reinforcing employee loyalty alongside salary."
Data for the Middle East and North Africa salary survey were collected online between March 3 and March 15, 2021, involving 2,524 participants from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Sudan, and other countries.
