The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has reminded private sector companies to meet their Emiratisation targets by December 31, warning that financial penalties will take effect from January 1, 2026 for non-compliance.
The directive applies to companies with 50 or more employees, which must ensure a 2% annual increase in the number of Emirati citizens employed in skilled positions before the end of this year.
A separate group of companies with 20 to 49 workers operating in high-growth sectors are also required to hire at least one UAE national by the same deadline and retain citizens already on their payroll.
MoHRE confirmed that violating companies will face legal consequences, including fines, downgraded classification, and mandatory steps to rectify their status.
To support compliance, the ministry urged firms to use the Nafis platform, which connects employers with qualified Emirati jobseekers. It also emphasized that its AI-powered monitoring system actively detects violations, such as fake Emiratisation practices or attempts to manipulate hiring data.
Citizens are encouraged to report violations through MoHRE’s call centre (600590000), mobile app, or website.
Authorities praised the private sector’s growing commitment to Emiratisation, noting that many companies are already achieving their targets. Compliant firms are rewarded with benefits such as discounts of up to 80% on service fees, priority in government procurement, and access to the Emiratisation Partners Club, which supports further business growth.
