Emiratisation

Our mission is to empower companies to successfully achieve their Emiratisation targets by providing tailored strategies and support. Through their deep understanding of local regulations and talent dynamics, we guide organizations in seamlessly integrating Emirati talent, ensuring compliance while fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Emiratisation Targets

  • Private companies with 50 or more employees must increase their Emirati workforce by 2% annually to reach 10% by the end of 2026.

  • The annual 2% target is split into 1% in the first half and 1% in the second half of each year.

  • As of June 2024, companies must have at least 5% Emirati employees. This increases to 6% by the end of 2024, 8% in 2025, and 10% by the end of 2026.

  • Effective January 1, 2024, companies with 20-49 employees in 14 key sectors must hire at least one Emirati in 2024 and another in 2025.

Challenge Overview

As Emiratisation mandates grow, many companies find themselves unsure of where to start.

Key challenges include:

  • Language Barriers: Concerns about effective communication and integration within a diverse workforce.

  • Cultural Understanding: Navigating the nuances of local culture to foster a harmonious work environment.

  • Talent Accessibility: Difficulty in identifying and attracting qualified Emirati candidates.

There are also several other myths surrounding ability, quality and cost that Emirati Connect are here to dispel.

How Does It Help?

Our solution is to identify and secure the top postgraduate talent by:

  • Building local Emirati communities exclusively for postgraduate networks.

  • Leverage strong relationships with local universities, lecturers and alumni for referrals.

  • We give back by attending, speaking and mentoring at local Emirati events.

These efforts enable us to connect with and attract the brightest emerging professionals, ensuring your company has access to top talent.

Universities We've Supported

We’ve partnered with top universities across the UAE to access emerging talent, ensuring top graduates are ready for today’s job market. These collaborations strengthen our recruitment efforts and create valuable opportunities for students and employers alike.

How Does It Work?

We implement tailored strategies to seamlessly integrate Emirati talent into your workforce for long-term success.

Step 1:

We understand your requirements.

Step 2:

We provide 3 carefully selected post-graduates.

Step 3:

We help organise the interviews.

Step 4:

You select your favoured candidate.

Step 5:

Candidate accepts and you are one step closer to your Emiritization goals.

Avoid Fines & Penalties

Failure to comply with the law can result in heavy fines or penalties for companies.

  • Firms with 20-49 employees face a DHS 96,000 annual fine in 2024 for not hiring an Emirati, rising to DHS 108,000 in 2025 for not hiring two Emiratis.

  • Companies found violating Emiratisation rules may face fines ranging from DHS 20,000 to 100,000 per case as well as restrictions on their MOHRE licenses and ability to hire.

  • Companies that fail to meet their Emiratisation targets face monthly fines of DHS 8,000 per Emirati not hired in 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Nafis program?

The Nafis programme is a UAE government initiative designed to increase the participation of Emirati nationals in the private sector workforce. Nafis aims to enhance the skills and employability of Emiratis by providing various incentives, training programs, and financial support.

Do interns or part time staff help my quota?

No, undergraduates do not count towards a company's Emiratisation goals as they do not meet the criteria for "skilled workers" as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)

Which are the 14 sectors mandated by government?

Key sectors are banking and finance, insurance, retail, real estate, education, healthcare, telecommunications, transport and logistics, tourism and hospitality, oil and gas, manufacturing, construction, information technology, and media and advertising.

Does the quota apply to freezones?

No, at the moment there is no mandate for freezone companies to adhere to the most recent rulings, however embracing Emirati hires and culture is a huge positive.