12 July 2026 · Overview
What Is Emiratisation & the Nafis Programme?
Emiratisation is the UAE government policy of increasing the share of UAE nationals in private-sector skilled jobs, enforced by MOHRE through annual targets and fines. The Nafis programme supports it by subsidising Emirati salaries and pensions and funding training, making it more affordable for private employers to hire and retain UAE nationals.
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Why Emiratisation exists
It shifts national talent into the private sector.
- Raises UAE-national participation in skilled private jobs.
- Set under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021.
- Enforced by MOHRE through targets and fines.
- Applies mainly to mainland companies of 50+ skilled staff.
What Nafis does
Nafis makes an Emirati hire affordable.
- Salary top-ups for UAE nationals in the private sector.
- Pension and training support.
- A recruitment platform to source candidates.
- Extended as a long-term national programme.
Related guides
Frequently Asked Questions
For employers new to Emiratisation.
Is Emiratisation only for large companies?
The 10% target applies to companies with 50+ skilled employees; a separate rule covers 20–49 employee firms in 14 sectors.
Does Nafis pay part of the salary?
Nafis provides salary top-ups and pension support for eligible Emirati hires, reducing the employer's net cost.
Who enforces Emiratisation?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which sets targets and issues fines for shortfalls.
Can Exiloz explain how it applies to us?
Yes. We assess whether and how Emiratisation applies to your Dubai company and map the actions.
Understand your Emiratisation duty
Exiloz explains exactly how Emiratisation and Nafis apply to your Dubai business.