The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has called on private sector companies with 20 to 49 employees to expedite the hiring of at least one Emirati citizen by the end of 2024.
This follows the UAE Cabinet’s decision to expand Emiratisation efforts, mandating that these companies employ at least one UAE national in 2025 as well.
More than 12,000 companies across 14 economic sectors—including finance, real estate, education, healthcare, and construction—are affected by the new requirements. These sectors are rapidly growing and offer abundant job opportunities for Emiratis.
Companies failing to meet their 2024 targets will face financial penalties of AED96,000, to be enforced from January 2025. The penalty increases to AED108,000 for non-compliance in 2025, with payments starting in 2026.
MoHRE also highlighted the importance of retaining Emirati employees hired before January 2024 and ensuring they are registered in the country’s pension system. The Ministry urged companies to utilize the Nafis programme, which connects businesses with skilled Emirati professionals, to achieve their targets.
Additionally, MoHRE cautioned against ‘Fake Emiratisation’ practices, warning that violators will face severe penalties.
This decision is part of the broader goal to achieve a 10% Emiratisation growth in skilled jobs for companies with 50 or more workers by 2026. The Ministry remains committed to supporting private sector companies through workshops and awareness campaigns aimed at enhancing Emirati hiring.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
