Emiratisation on track with 190,000 employed in private sector

More than 190,000 Emiratis are currently working in the private sector across the United Arab Emirates, according to recent figures released by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. This number represents a major achievement under the nation’s ongoing Emiratisation initiative, which aims to increase the proportion of local citizens in non-government jobs. As of mid-2026, 95 percent of companies required to meet specific quotas have done so, showing strong adherence to the policy goals. The Emiratisation programme mandates that firms employing at least 50 individuals must ensure that Emiratis constitute at least 9 percent of their workforce by June 30, with the target increasing to 10 percent by the end of the year. These requirements apply to a wide range of industries and businesses operating within the UAE. The current success rate indicates that the majority of these companies are meeting their obligations, contributing significantly to the overall employment numbers of Emirati nationals. The 190,000 Emirati workers are spread across approximately 32,000 companies, demonstrating the extensive reach of the initiative into the private sector. This distribution highlights the collaborative effort between government authorities and business entities to create a sustainable and competitive labor environment. According to the ministry, this collaboration has played a crucial role in enhancing the presence of Emirati professionals in various economic fields. The Emiratisation scheme, often referred to as Nafis, was launched in 2021 with the objective of ensuring that Emiratis account for 10 percent of the private-sector workforce by the end of 2026. The program has been extended beyond its initial timeframe, with Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, announcing in April 2026 that the strategy would continue through 2040. This extension underscores the long-term vision of integrating Emirati nationals into the workforce and reducing dependency on expatriate labor. The ministry emphasized that the current milestone reflects the private sector's increasing dedication to recruiting and retaining national talent. It noted that the initiative has fostered a culture of empowerment among Emirati professionals, enabling them to take on greater responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to the economy. The ministry’s statement highlighted the importance of maintaining this momentum to achieve future objectives related to workforce diversification and self-sufficiency. As the Emiratisation programme continues to evolve, further measures are being considered to support both employers and employees. These include additional training programs, incentives for hiring Emiratis, and policies aimed at improving job retention rates. The government is also exploring ways to expand the scope of the initiative to cover more sectors and encourage broader participation from all levels of the private sector. The success of the Emiratisation programme thus far suggests that the UAE is making steady progress toward its goal of creating a more balanced and inclusive labor market. With continued cooperation between public and private stakeholders, the nation appears well-positioned to meet its long-term aspirations for economic resilience and national development.