Young migrant women from South Asia in the UAE

Abstract

Historically, the literature on migration has too often neglected young women in the context of migration. The migration of young women to the Gulf States has increased over the last three to four decades. Over the past few years, the influx of young women from South Asian countries has increased due to employment and economic opportunities in the labour market. This chapter explores young women’s migratory experiences from South Asia to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), working in the service sector. This chapter situates labour migration by young women from South Asia to the UAE within youth studies as an emerging field that tries to bridge three main constructions – age, generations and gender. It also explores how these young migrant women negotiate their host countries’ identities and the implications of migration in their lives and future prospects. The chapter also attempts to understand local immigration laws and policies that regulate their presence and impacts on their inclusion in the service sector in wage labour relations. Finally, the chapter concludes with a discussion on future policy implications and makes recommendations for improving the safety and work of young migrants.