Considering that we have had no raise and no cost of living adjustment, comparing a one time 3 percent raise to your country (Canadarocks) annual cost of living adjustment of 3 percent per annum, this raise would be 9% short of what it should be.
I don't know what cost of living is in the UAE but would guess at least 7% per annum these last four years. 3-5% is woefully small raise.
My guess is it is a placebo.