UAE Firms Urged to Meet Emiratization Targets by Year-End

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) has reminded private sector companies to fulfill their Emiratisation targets by December 31. Companies with 50 or more employees are required to have Emiratis in 4% of skilled roles by the end of 2023.

Private sector companies with 50 or more employees must meet the Emiratization target of having Emiratis in 4% of skilled roles by December 31, 2023.The target requires companies to add 2% of Emiratis to their workforce every year until 2026. The annual target is now split into two phases, with 1% added in the first half of the year and the remaining 1% in the second half.

Fines for not meeting the annual target increase by Dh1,000 per month per Emirati not hired. This year’s penalty is Dh7,000 per month per Emirati not hired.Establishments that have yet to meet their targets can utilize the Nafis platform to find Emirati job seekers.

The MoHRE noted that 18,000 establishments have met their targets, resulting in a significant increase in Emiratis joining the private sector. Over 84,000 Emiratis currently work in the private sector.

The ministry maintains a zero-tolerance policy against fake emitarization, where companies hire UAE nationals to meet targets without providing real tasks or responsibilities.In August, fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000 were imposed on 565 companies proven to have hired 824 UAE nationals in fake jobs.

The Emiratisation initiative aims to increase the participation of Emiratis in the private sector, promote economic development, and provide opportunities for UAE nationals.