In a significant step toward strengthening national workforce participation, the number of Emiratis working in the UAE’s private sector has now exceeded 152,000, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
As of 30 June, the mid-year deadline for meeting Emiratisation targets, these nationals are employed across more than 29,000 private companies, marking a major milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to integrate UAE citizens into a diverse range of industries.
The growth is being attributed to the success of Emiratisation policies and the continued support of the Nafis programme, which offers incentives and training to both companies and job seekers. Emiratis are now actively contributing to six major sectors, including business services, construction, finance, trade, and manufacturing. Roles range from technical and administrative positions to management and specialist roles.
Looking ahead, MoHRE aims to push Emiratisation further by requiring large companies to increase the number of employed Emiratis by an additional 1% before year-end. For smaller firms, with 20 to 49 employees, in 14 specified sectors, at least one Emirati must be hired by December. For more details, visit MoHRE's website.