The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has reminded private sector companies to achieve their 2024 Emiratisation targets by December 31. Companies with 50 or more employees must ensure a 2% increase in Emiratisation for skilled positions, while eligible smaller establishments (20-49 employees) in key sectors must hire at least one Emirati national and retain those employed before January 2024.
Currently, over 124,000 Emirati nationals work across 23,000 private companies. MoHRE encourages employers to use the Nafis programme to recruit Emiratis and register them in pension and salary systems like the Wage Protection System (WPS). Compliant companies enjoy benefits such as reduced service fees and priority in government contracts.
Non-compliant companies face penalties, including fines of AED 96,000 per unmet target, downgrading of classification, and potential legal action. MoHRE also warns against fake Emiratisation practices, urging Emirati job seekers to verify job offers and report violations via official channels.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
