The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) has issued a crucial reminder to private sector companies in the UAE, emphasizing the approaching June 30 deadline for meeting the Emiratisation targets.
This initiative requires private companies with 50 or more employees to increase their Emirati workforce by 1% before the end of the first half of the year. This effort is part of a broader national strategy to enhance the participation of UAE nationals in the private sector workforce.
The Emiratisation program is a key policy of the UAE government aimed at integrating more Emirati nationals into the private sector.
The ultimate goal is to ensure that Emiratis constitute 10% of the workforce in private companies by 2026. To achieve this, companies are expected to increase their Emirati employee numbers by 2% annually.
This gradual approach allows companies to steadily build a more diverse and inclusive workforce while contributing to the national economy.
Support and Enforcement
To support companies in achieving these targets, the UAE government has introduced several measures. The Nafis program, for instance, plays a significant role by providing data on qualified Emirati job seekers, facilitating the hiring process for employers. Additionally, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation offers various resources and guidance to help companies comply with the regulations.
However, the government is also firm in its enforcement of these targets. Starting July 1, the ministry will actively monitor compliance and impose penalties on companies that fail to meet the required Emiratisation targets. Companies that do not comply will face fines, and Mohre has already fined 1,379 companies this year for either not meeting the targets or for employing Emirati nationals unlawfully.
Economic and Social Impact
The Emiratisation initiative is not just about meeting quotas; it is a strategic move to strengthen the UAE’s economy by leveraging the talents and skills of its citizens. By integrating more Emiratis into the private sector, the government aims to reduce reliance on expatriate workers and ensure that the national workforce is actively contributing to the country’s economic growth and development.
Moreover, this initiative has significant social implications. It provides UAE nationals with more job opportunities and career growth prospects within the private sector, which has traditionally been dominated by expatriates. This integration helps in building a more inclusive and balanced society where Emiratis have a more prominent role in the economic activities of the country.
Call to Action
As the June 30 deadline approaches, private companies in the UAE must act promptly to review their workforce composition and ensure compliance with the Emiratisation targets. Those that have not yet increased their Emirati workforce by 1% need to expedite their hiring processes. Failure to comply not only attracts financial penalties but also reflects poorly on the company’s commitment to national goals and policies.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation continues to encourage companies to utilize the resources provided by the government and to engage actively with initiatives like Nafis to find suitable Emirati candidates. By doing so, companies not only avoid penalties but also contribute positively to the socio-economic fabric of the UAE.
In conclusion, the Emiratisation target is a pivotal element of the UAE’s strategy to enhance national participation in the private sector. With the deadline fast approaching, it is imperative for companies to align with this national objective and ensure they are contributing to the broader goals of economic diversification and social inclusion.
