MoHRE Urges Compliance With Emiratisation Targets Before December 2024 Deadline

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has reiterated its call for private-sector companies to meet their Emiratisation targets for 2024 by the end of December. Companies that comply will receive certain benefits, while those that do not will face financial penalties starting 1 January 2025. These policies apply to firms with at least 50 employees, requiring a 2% increase in skilled Emirati workers.

Companies with 50 or more employees must ensure a 2% rise in Emirati staff in skilled roles by year-end. Non-compliance will result in a financial contribution of AED96,000 for each unfilled position. Additionally, businesses employing between 20 and 49 workers in specific sectors must hire at least one Emirati or retain any hired before January 2024, facing similar penalties if they fail to comply.

The Ministry has committed to monitoring compliance with these requirements, aligning with Cabinet policies to boost UAE nationals' employment in the private sector. Over 117,000 Emiratis are currently employed across more than 22,000 private companies. The Ministry aims to support firms in achieving their targets, enhancing the private sector's role as a partner in government efforts.

Compliant companies can benefit from incentives offered by the Emiratisation Partners Club. These include discounts of up to 80% on Ministry fees and priority in government procurement processes, which can significantly enhance growth opportunities. The Ministry also encourages companies to use the Nafis platform to connect with Emirati job-seekers.

MoHRE emphasised the importance of registering Emirati employees in pension and social security systems and ensuring salary payments through the Wage Protection System (WPS). This is part of broader efforts to integrate UAE nationals into the workforce effectively.

Ensuring Authenticity and Reporting Violations

The Ministry urged job-seekers to verify job offers' authenticity to avoid fake schemes and continue benefiting from the Nafis programme. It highlighted its oversight system's effectiveness in detecting non-compliance and taking legal action against violators. UAE citizens are encouraged to report any violations through MoHRE’s call centre or digital platforms.

MoHRE remains confident that private-sector companies understand the importance of adhering to these policies and avoiding negative practices like fake Emiratisation schemes. The ultimate goal is to support Emirati professionals' contributions to economic development, aligning with strategic national objectives for sustainable growth.

These measures aim to advance the UAE's transition towards a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, positioning it among the world's fastest-growing economies with high-quality jobs for nationals.

With inputs from WAM