The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in Dubai has initiated the implementation of a Cabinet decision expanding the reach of Emiratisation targets. Over 12,000 companies, each with 20-49 employees, operating in 14 specific economic sectors, are now mandated to hire at least one UAE citizen in 2024 and another in 2025.
MoHRE has digitally notified these companies, granting them ample time to meet the specified targets. The targeted sectors encompass information and communications, finance and insurance, real estate, professional and technical activities, administrative and support services, education, healthcare and social work, arts and entertainment, mining and quarrying, transformative industries, construction, wholesale and retail, transportation and warehousing, and accommodation and hospitality – all experiencing rapid growth and capable of providing suitable employment for Emiratis.
The ministry emphasized the importance for companies to promptly fulfill their Emiratisation targets and encouraged them to register on the Nafis platform. This platform provides support by supplying the private sector with qualified Emirati professionals.
MoHRE will continue organizing training workshops to guide companies on meeting their targets and utilizing the support offered by the Nafis platform.
Non-compliance consequences involve annual financial contributions for companies failing to meet their targets. For each UAE citizen not appointed in 2024, a contribution of Dh96,000 will be imposed, collectible from January 2025. Similarly, a Dh108,000 contribution will be imposed for not meeting 2025 targets, collectible from January 2026. Companies can pay these contributions in installment plans, subject to agreement with MoHRE.
This Emiratisation decision for companies with 20-49 employees aligns with the ongoing Emiratisation targets for companies with 50 or more employees, requiring a two percent annual growth in Emiratisation of skilled jobs.