Overview

The UAE government continues to advance its national employment agenda through the Emiratisation targets, a key component of its economic diversification and workforce localization strategy. As we step into 2025, the Emiratisation updates bring stricter regulations, clearer targets, and higher compliance expectations—especially for companies operating in the private sector.

In this blog, we’ll explore the 2025 Emiratisation targets, new updates from MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation), sector-specific obligations, fines, and strategic steps businesses should take to comply with the national workforce goals.

What Are Emiratisation Targets?

Emiratisation targets refer to the UAE government’s policy to increase the participation of Emirati nationals in the private sector. By setting employment quotas for UAE nationals, the initiative aims to reduce dependence on expatriate labor while creating sustainable employment opportunities for Emiratis.

Under the Nafis Program, the government provides salary support, training, and employment incentives to help businesses hire and retain Emirati talent effectively.

Emiratisation Targets for 2025: What’s New?

The Emiratisation targets for 2025 build on the 2022–2024 roadmap. In 2025, new deadlines, industry-specific thresholds, and increased penalties have been introduced to push private sector participation forward.

Here are the core updates for 2025:

• 2% yearly Emirati workforce growth for companies with 50+ employees continues.

• New sectors including construction, real estate, and manufacturing must now comply.

• Monthly penalties for non-compliance have increased to AED 8,000 per Emirati shortfall.

• Companies must report Emirati hires via MOHRE’s digital platforms to maintain compliance.

2025 Emiratisation Quotas by Company Size

Note: Fines will increase by AED 1,000 annually until 2026 if targets are not met.

Sectors Affected in 2025

Previously focused on the finance and insurance sectors, the Emiratisation targets for 2025 now extend to:

• Construction

• Real Estate

• Manufacturing

• Transport and Logistics

• Healthcare

• Education

• Retail and Wholesale

This wider scope reflects the UAE’s commitment to broad-based workforce nationalization.

How Companies Can Meet Emiratisation Targets

To avoid penalties and foster compliance, businesses should take the following strategic steps:

1. Integrate Emiratisation into Workforce Planning

Make hiring UAE nationals part of your annual HR and recruitment strategy.

2. Leverage Nafis Programs

Take advantage of government incentives such as wage subsidies, training support, and job matching services.

3. Create Clear Career Paths

Retaining Emirati talent requires mentorship, training, and visible growth opportunities.

4. Digitally Report Hires

Use the MOHRE digital portal to log Emirati hires and remain compliant.

5. Collaborate with Local Universities

Form partnerships with Emirati institutions to build a talent pipeline through internships and graduate programs.

Conclusion

The UAE Emiratisation targets for 2025 mark a significant shift toward a sustainable, inclusive, and nationally driven private sector. While the penalties for non-compliance are steep, the benefits of aligning with this national initiative—ranging from financial incentives to enhanced public image—make compliance a strategic move.

Businesses must act proactively, integrate Emiratisation into HR operations, and take full advantage of government programs like Nafis. As the UAE strengthens its economy through localization, companies that adapt early will find themselves in a stronger, more resilient position.

FAQs

1. What are the Emiratisation targets for 2025?

Companies with 50+ employees must increase their Emirati workforce by 2% each year. New sectors like construction and manufacturing are now included.

2. What happens if a company doesn’t meet Emiratisation targets?

They face fines of AED 8,000 per month for each unfilled Emirati role, increasing annually by AED 1,000.

3. How can companies meet their Emiratisation targets?

By hiring UAE nationals, using Nafis incentives, offering clear career development paths, and reporting hires via MOHRE platforms.

4. What is Nafis?

Nafis is a UAE government initiative that provides salary subsidies, training, and job placement support to encourage Emirati employment in the private sector.

5. Which sectors are now included under Emiratisation in 2025?

Newly included sectors are construction, real estate, manufacturing, education, healthcare, and retail, among others.