The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has reminded private sector companies to meet their Emiratisation targets for the first half of 2026. Companies must do so before the June 30 deadline.
The requirement applies to private sector establishments with 50 or more employees. These companies must achieve a 1% increase in the number of UAE nationals working in skilled roles. This must happen during the first six months of 2026.
The ministry has urged businesses not to wait until the final days before the deadline. Instead, companies should accelerate their hiring plans through available government-backed recruitment channels, including the Nafis platform.
What Is the H1 2026 Emiratisation Target?
Under the UAE’s Emiratisation policy, eligible private sector companies are required to increase the percentage of Emirati employees in skilled jobs by 1%. This must be achieved during the first half of 2026.
A further 1% increase is expected in the second half of the year. Consequently, this brings the total required annual growth to 2% by the end of 2026.
The policy is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to strengthen the participation of Emirati talent in the private sector. Additionally, it aims to create more sustainable career opportunities for UAE nationals across key industries.
Companies That Miss the Deadline Face Financial Contributions
MoHRE confirmed that financial contributions will apply from July 1, 2026. This will affect companies that fail to meet their required Emiratisation rate for the first half of the year.
The ministry also warned that companies found violating Emiratisation rules may face further action. This may include being downgraded in MoHRE’s establishment classification system, along with measures requiring them to correct their compliance status.
For employers, this means that meeting the June 30 deadline is not only a regulatory requirement. It is also an important step in avoiding financial and administrative consequences.
MoHRE Urges Businesses to Use Nafis
MoHRE has encouraged private sector companies to use the Nafis platform. This helps them connect with Emirati jobseekers across a wide range of professional backgrounds.
Nafis supports the UAE’s national employment goals by helping companies identify qualified Emirati candidates. Meanwhile, it also supports UAE nationals with training, development, and employment opportunities.
For businesses operating in free zones and across the mainland, the platform can be an important tool for meeting Emiratisation targets. At the same time, it helps build a stronger local workforce.
Why Emiratisation Matters for UAE Businesses
Emiratisation has become a central part of the UAE’s labour market strategy. The policy aims to increase the role of UAE nationals in the private sector, diversify employment opportunities, and encourage companies to invest in local talent.
For private sector employers, compliance is now a key part of workforce planning. Companies need to review their skilled roles, assess their current Emirati headcount, and ensure that hiring plans are aligned with MoHRE’s requirements.
Businesses that act early have a better chance of finding suitable candidates, completing onboarding procedures, and avoiding last-minute compliance challenges.
What Employers Should Do Before June 30
Companies subject to the Emiratisation requirement should review their current workforce data. They should also confirm whether they have achieved the 1% skilled-role target for the first half of 2026.
Employers should also ensure that any Emirati hires are properly registered. Furthermore, they need to make sure their employment records are updated through the relevant official systems.
Businesses that have not yet met the target should move quickly to identify eligible roles. Next, they should contact suitable candidates and use Nafis to support the recruitment process.
Reporting Emiratisation Violations
MoHRE has also called on UAE citizens to report any violations or practices that go against Emiratisation policies.
Reports can be made through MoHRE’s call centre, smart application, or official website. The ministry has stated that these channels follow high standards of privacy and responsiveness.
Final Reminder for Private Sector Companies
With the June 30, 2026 deadline approaching, UAE private sector companies with 50 or more employees must ensure they meet their required Emiratisation target. This applies for the first half of the year.
The message from MoHRE is clear: companies should take immediate steps to comply and use available recruitment platforms. Also, they should avoid waiting until the final days.
For businesses in the UAE, meeting Emiratisation targets is now an essential part of responsible workforce planning. It is also crucial for long-term regulatory compliance.
