The scope of Emiratisation target regulations has expanded to include over 12,000 companies operating in 14 specific economic sectors, each with 20-49 employees. These companies are mandated to hire at least one UAE citizen in 2024 and an additional one in 2025, according to a notification from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre).
The designated economic activities 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. These sectors, marked by rapid growth, offer substantial job opportunities and conducive working environments.
Firms affected by the decision were alerted through Mohre’s digital system, affording them ample time to meet the specified targets. The Ministry urged prompt compliance with Emiratisation goals to avoid delays until the year’s end.
Companies failing to appoint UAE citizens in 2024 will face fines of Dh96,000 per individual, to be enforced from January 2025. Similarly, fines of Dh108,000 will be imposed for non-compliance with 2025 targets, with collections scheduled for January 2026. Mohre allows companies to settle fines through installment plans.
Registration on the Nafis platform is emphasized for targeted companies to benefit from the program’s support in supplying qualified Emirati professionals to the private sector. The Ministry will conduct training workshops to guide companies in meeting their targets and utilizing the support offered by the Nafis platform.
This Emiratisation decision for companies with 20-49 employees aligns with ongoing efforts to implement Emiratisation targets for larger companies (50 or more employees), requiring a 2% annual growth in Emiratisation for skilled positions.
