The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has issued a strong call to private sector companies with 50 or more employees to meet their Emiratisation target for the first half of 2024. These targets require a 1% increase in the number of Emiratis in skilled jobs by June 30, 2024, in accordance with the relevant Cabinet Resolution.

MoHRE has set the final deadline of June 30 for companies to achieve these targets, emphasizing that compliance monitoring will begin on July 1. The Ministry praised companies that have already met their targets and stressed the importance of registering Emirati employees with authorized pension funds and the Wage Protection System (WPS). Companies are encouraged to maintain their progress in Emiratisation until the deadline.

Key Takeaways

• Deadline for Emiratisation Target: Companies with 50+ employees must achieve a 1% increase in Emiratis in skilled jobs by June 30, 2024.
• Compliance Monitoring: Begins on July 1, with penalties for non-compliance.
• Nafis Platform: Provides data on qualified Emirati nationals to help companies meet their targets.
• Enforcement Actions: 1,379 companies fined for circumventing targets; corrective measures required.
• Reporting Violations: Encouraged via MoHRE’s call centre or smart application.

Nafis platform:

For companies that have not yet met their targets, MoHRE recommends utilizing the Nafis platform. Nafis provides access to data on qualified Emirati nationals seeking employment in various specializations. It also helps companies find the right candidates to meet their Emiratisation goals.

“Emiratisation is a top priority for the UAE Government,” MoHRE stated. “It plays a critical role in achieving economic growth objectives and empowering national human capital.”

Unlawful hiring practices:

MoHRE’s innovative digital and field supervision system revealed that 1,379 companies attempted to circumvent Emiratisation target by unlawfully hiring 2,170 UAE citizens from mid-2022 to May 16, 2024. These companies faced fines, downgrading of ratings, and referral of some cases to the Public Prosecution. Financial penalties were imposed starting from the date of violation, and corrective measures were mandated.

The Ministry encourages reporting any violations to its smart application.

“Emiratisation targets are essential for enhancing Emirati participation in the job market and contributing to the country’s economic development,” MoHRE added.

With the UAE’s rapidly growing economy, MoHRE remains confident in companies’ ability to fulfill their commitments. The participation of UAE nationals in private-sector jobs has proven valuable to businesses, contributing significantly to their growth and success.

Conclusion

For employers in the UAE, meeting Emiratisation target is both a regulatory requirement and an opportunity to enhance the workforce with skilled Emirati talent. Bayt.com supports these nationalization initiatives by offering a comprehensive database of Emirati nationals. With our resources, companies can efficiently find and hire qualified Emirati candidates. This will ensure compliance and contribute to the UAE’s economic growth. Let Bayt.com help you meet your Emiratisation goals and build a stronger, more diverse team.

Curious about hiring Emiratis? Book a meeting and let’s discuss!