The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the expansion of its private sector Emiratisation programme.
The MoHRE initiative, aimed at increasing job opportunities for Emirati citizens, will now be expanded to companies and individual establishments employing between 20 and 49 workers across 14 specific main economic activities.
The newly included industries cover a wide spectrum of sectors, ranging from information and communication to financial and insurance activities, real estate activities, professional, scientific and technical activities, and administrative and support services.
In addition, the education sector, activities in the field of human health and social work, arts and entertainment, and mining and quarrying will also be part of the expanded programme.
The decision also requires the targeted establishments to hire at least one Emirati citizen in 2024 and an additional one in 2025.
To ensure compliance, the Ministry will share the 14 specific economic activities via its digital channels, ensuring that the targeted enterprises are informed quickly. Moreover, these establishments will also receive notifications through these platforms.
Emiratisation enforcement: Fines and penalties
As for fines under the new Emiratisation rules, MoHRE has introduced a penalty system.
Companies failing to meet these hiring requirements will face a “yearly financial contribution” of AED96,000, starting January 2024, for failing to hire an Emirati citizen.
The fine will increase to AED108,000 from January 2026 for still failing to comply with these requirements in 2025.
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