Bridging the Education-Employment Gap: Barriers to Employment and Well-Being Among Unemployed Individuals in Abu Dhabi

Unemployment remains a critical socio-economic challenge with profound implications for individual well-being. This study examines the self-perceived barriers to employment and their impact on key well-being determinants, including life satisfaction, happiness, mental health (where higher scores indicate worse outcomes), subjective health, family relations, friend relations, and the ability to make ends meet (ATMEM), among unemployed individuals in Abu Dhabi. Using data from a comprehensive survey (QoL-5), the analysis reveals significant differences in well-being outcomes across demographic factors such as gender, age, education level, and head of household status. Notably, barriers such as lack of social networks, job competition, and education-related challenges emerged as the most impactful, with "Lack of social network" strongly associated with worse mental health and lower social connections. Heads of households and mid-life respondents experienced greater vulnerabilities, reporting poorer mental health and financial strain. Conversely, younger and non-head respondents exhibited better mental well-being and stronger social relationships. These findings highlight the complex interplay between self-perceived barriers, demographic factors, and well-being dimensions. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions to address unemployment's psychological and social challenges and foster a more inclusive labor market in Abu Dhabi. Received: 30 January 2025 / Accepted: 24 April 2025 / Published: 08 May 2025