The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has confirmed that June 30 is the final deadline for private sector companies employing 50 or more workers to meet their Emiratisation targets, requiring a 1% increase in skilled Emirati workforce participation during the first half of 2026 as part of national workforce development policies.

The ministry clarified that this target forms part of a broader annual plan mandating an additional 1% growth in the second half of the year, bringing the total Emiratisation growth requirement to 2% by the end of 2026, reflecting a structured and gradual approach to strengthening national workforce integration.

It also announced that starting from July 1, financial contributions will be imposed on companies that fail to meet the required Emiratisation percentages for the first half of the year, underlining the government’s firm stance on enforcing compliance across the private sector.

Companies were urged to act promptly and avoid last-minute efforts, with strong emphasis placed on leveraging the Nafis platform to connect with qualified Emirati job seekers across various fields, thereby facilitating smoother achievement of mandated targets.

The ministry further highlighted that the Nafis program has been extended until 2040 under leadership directives, with enhancements including increased child allowance support and extended financial benefits, aimed at ensuring long-term job stability for Emirati citizens and boosting their participation in the private sector.