Dubai-based talent management company Dandelion Civilization plans to launch next month with a goal of improving hiring efficiency by 40% through a game-based assessment platform. This initiative aims to help employers discover talent by focusing on behavior rather than just resumes, addressing the challenges of outdated recruitment models and increasing application volumes faced by many companies in the region.

The startup seeks to capture a market share of up to $150 million within the next 2 to 3 years. Dandelion Civilization’s approach moves away from traditional CV filters, instead utilizing immersive simulations that evaluate candidates on problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making skills under pressure. The company believes this strategy will enhance the hiring process, especially for roles that require strong soft skills and adaptability.

Dmitry Zaytsev, the founder of Dandelion Civilization, stated, “Companies today are overwhelmed by volume and underwhelmed by insight.” He emphasized the company’s mission to provide a better perspective for employers to assess candidates beyond what is simply written in documents. The startup recently conducted a pilot program with students from leading UAE universities, where participants engaged in interactive game-based assessments that produced behavioral profiles and career insights.

Although formal corporate partnerships have not yet been announced, Dandelion Civilization is in advanced discussions with several large regional employers about integrating its tools into graduate hiring and internal development programs. There is strong demand from sectors facing rapid change and internal mobility challenges, including finance, logistics, and retail.

Zaytsev also pointed out that the platform is not exclusively for students or early-career hires. He explained that it aims to create a comprehensive understanding of candidates, which typically requires costly assessments or psychological interviews. Dandelion Civilization provides a scalable, ethical method to obtain in-depth insights for everyday hiring practices.

The first two games developed by the platform, which focus on psychological profiling and group strategy, are expected to launch in the second quarter of 2025. Future updates will include features for long-term employee development, team analysis, and virtual onboarding simulations.

As the UAE strives to become a global hub for innovation and talent, Dandelion Civilization presents a timely solution for employers looking to modernize and enhance their recruitment processes.