UAE Emiratisation Deadline: July 1st Hiring Rule & Fines
UAE Emiratisation Deadline looms for Private Sector Firms
Updated June 12, 2025
Companies in the United Arab Emirates have until the end of June to meet Emiratisation targets or face fines, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). the ministry is urging private sector companies with 50 or more employees to accelerate their efforts to meet the goals for the first half of 2025.
MoHRE emphasized that companies failing to meet the required Emiratisation targets will face financial contributions starting in July.The targets include a 1% increase in the number of Emirati citizens employed in skilled positions, relative to the company’s total skilled workforce, while maintaining existing Emiratisation rates.
The ministry encourages UAE nationals to report any violations of Emiratisation policies by contacting the call center at 600590000 or through the MoHRE smart app and website. MoHRE expressed confidence in the private sector’s understanding of the strategic benefits of Emiratisation, which enhances the country’s work surroundings and supports economic growth.
MoHRE also highlighted the support available to compliant companies through the Nafis program. Companies exceeding Emiratisation targets can gain membership in the Tawteen Partners Club, offering financial discounts on ministry service fees and priority in government procurement.
The Nafis platform provides companies with access to a pool of qualified Emirati talent, facilitating their ability to meet Emiratisation obligations. The ministry praised the private sector’s engagement with Emiratisation policies, noting that more then 141,000 Emiratis are now employed across 28,000 private sector companies in the UAE as of May.
What’s next
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will continue to monitor private sector compliance with emiratisation targets and provide support through the nafis program. Further announcements regarding compliance and enforcement are expected in July.