The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has issued a renewed call to private sector companies in the UAE to meet their semi-annual Emiratisation targets before the 30th of June 2025 deadline. The reminder is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote sustainable employment opportunities for UAE nationals and achieve the goals of the Nafis programme.
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The semi-annual targets apply to all private sector companies in the UAE with 50 or more employees. These entities are required to increase the proportion of Emirati employees in skilled positions by 1% every six months, aiming for an overall 2% increase annually, as per Cabinet Resolution No. 95 of 2022.
The Ministry also urged companies to utilize the digital support channels and services available through the Nafis platform to recruit qualified Emirati talent. WAM report.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Companies failing to meet the June deadline will be subject to financial penalties starting at AED 7,000 per unmet Emirati per month, increasing annually by AED 1,000 until 2026, in accordance with the relevant Cabinet resolutions. These fines will be collected starting 1st July 2025, based on the Emiratization shortfall.
MoHRE has repeatedly emphasized the importance of early compliance to avoid last-minute pressure and ensure alignment with the UAE’s long-term vision for workforce nationalization.
Emiratization Incentives and Support
To facilitate private sector compliance, the government has rolled out multiple support mechanisms, including:
- Wage support of up to AED 7,000 per month for Emiratis in the private sector.
- Training and skill development programmes.
- Subsidized pension contributions and child allowance grants for Emiratis.
Continued Momentum
This latest reminder follows the Ministry’s extensive inspection and enforcement campaign launched earlier this year. Companies are encouraged to proactively engage with Nafis services, identify skill gaps, and offer career growth paths for UAE nationals.
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