The United Arab Emirates has achieved a significant milestone as the number of citizens employed in the private sector has surpassed 100,000 for the first time in the country’s history. This outstanding achievement is attributed to the Nafis employment program launched by President Sheikh Mohamed in September 2021, which has led to 70,000 Emiratis securing jobs at private companies in the last two and a half years. The program has received generous support of Dh24 billion and has been instrumental in accelerating economic growth in the country.
Emphasizing the importance of the Emiratisation strategy in the private sector, Sheikh Mohammed, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting and stimulating Emiratisation through various legislations and initiatives. The UAE Cabinet has also decided to give priority to Emirati applicants with at least three years of private sector experience in federal government job placements. This move aims to further strengthen the symbiotic relationship between the private and government sectors in the country.
The Nafis program has been pivotal in encouraging Emiratis to pursue career opportunities in the private sector. Private companies are required to gradually increase the percentage of their Emirati workforce to at least 10% by 2026, with a target of 1% increase in each half of the year. To ensure compliance, the Ministry will conduct checks starting July 1, and companies failing to meet the targets will face penalties. Inspections are regularly carried out to monitor adherence to Emiratisation rules, with over 1,300 violations recorded between mid-2022 and May 2023.
The government’s focus remains on creating inclusive opportunities for both national and expatriate workers in the UAE’s economy, with the aim of adding 100,000 new jobs for citizens in the next three years. The collaboration between the private and government sectors is essential in achieving this goal, with the private sector playing a significant role in providing employment opportunities for Emiratis. The growth in the number of Emirati employees in the private sector signifies the success of the government’s efforts to enhance the employability of locals in the country.
The increasing number of Emiratis in the private sector demonstrates the positive impact of initiatives like Nafis in creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. The government’s commitment to supporting Emiratisation through legislation and financial support has been instrumental in driving economic growth and enhancing the employment prospects for citizens. Moving forward, continued collaboration between the private and government sectors will be crucial in sustaining this momentum and further expanding opportunities for Emiratis in the workforce. Stay updated with the latest news and developments in the UAE by following KT on WhatsApp Channels.
