UAE Sets Year-End Deadline for Emiratisation Compliance, Warns of Penalties
Private firms urged to meet hiring quotas by December 31 or face fines, downgrading, and loss of incentives.
Staff WriterOct 28, 2025, 12:57 PMThe UAE has urged private sector companies to meet their Emiratisation targets before December 31, warning that penalties will be enforced on those failing to comply with the required hiring rates.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) reminded firms that financial penalties will be imposed from January 1, 2026, if they do not meet the set standards. The targets apply to companies with 50 or more employees, which must record a two per cent annual growth in the number of Emiratis in skilled positions by the end of the year.
The same deadline applies to certain firms employing 20 to 49 workers in selected fast-growing sectors capable of offering jobs and a supportive work environment. These businesses must hire at least one UAE national and retain existing Emirati staff before January 1, 2026.
Penalties and Monitoring
Failure to comply will result in legal measures, including the downgrading of the company’s classification under Mohre’s establishment system and orders to correct their status.
The ministry encouraged companies to use the Nafis platform to connect with qualified Emirati job seekers and meet their hiring commitments. It also highlighted its AI-enabled monitoring system, designed to detect and prevent fraudulent practices such as fake Emiratisation or attempts to bypass hiring quotas.
UAE citizens have been asked to report violations or breaches of Emiratisation rules via Mohre’s call centre at 600590000, its mobile app, or official website.
Commitment and Support
Mohre commended the private sector’s growing commitment to Emiratisation since the policy’s inception, noting that compliance demonstrates companies’ sense of national and social responsibility and their role in empowering Emiratis in the workforce.
Compliant firms will continue to receive extensive support through Nafis and related initiatives, including membership in the Emiratisation Partners Club. Members achieving strong results in Emiratisation enjoy competitive benefits, such as up to 80 per cent discounts on ministry service fees and priority in government procurement, enhancing their business growth prospects.
For any enquiries please fill out this form, or contact info@thelawreporters.com and Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels