The Mediating Effect of Work-Life Balance on the Relationship Between Talent Management and Talent Retention in UAE

Today talents are an important asset of organizations, whereas effective talent management is one of the factors that contribute to talent retentions. Hence work-life balance is a critical factor to maintain talents needs by influencing the effect of talent management on talent retentions. The aim of this study is to examine the relationships between talent management and talent retention, as well as examining the mediating role of work-life balance on this relationship in Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA). Quantitative methodology was applied to test the hypothesized relationships. Questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 389 DEWA employees. Simple random sampling technique was applied in the survey procedure. AMOS software was utilized to conduct data analysis in this study, data analysis is based on Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results showed that talent management has a significant effect on talent retention. In addition, work-life balance partially mediates this relationship. Based on the results, it is recommended that DEWA should strengthen its talent management initiatives by aligning them with employee development goals and retention strategies. Offering tailored training programs, clear career progression paths, and leadership opportunities will encourage employees to remain engaged and committed. Moreover, DEWA can improve retention of its employees by fostering a healthy work-life balance. Offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and wellness programs will help employees manage personal and professional responsibilities, reducing burnout and increasing job satisfaction.