Emiratisation (Nafis)
The Nafis program enforces strict quotas requiring private sector companies in the mainland to hire UAE nationals, backed by severe financial penalties.
The Quota System
For mainland companies with 50 or more skilled employees, there is a mandated 2% annual increase in the Emiratisation rate of skilled jobs, targeting a 10% rate by the end of 2026.
2024 Update for Small Businesses
Starting in 2024, the government expanded quotas to smaller companies (20-49 employees) operating in specific targeted sectors like Information and Communications, Real Estate, Education, and Healthcare. These companies must hire at least one Emirati in 2024 and another in 2025.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to meet the quota results in heavy financial contributions (fines) calculated monthly.
AED 8,000 / month
For every targeted Emirati not hired in 2024 (totaling AED 96,000 annually per missing citizen). This fine increases by AED 1,000 yearly.
Free Zone Exemptions
Currently, Free Zone entities are encouraged but not legally mandated to meet Emiratisation quotas, making Free Zones highly attractive for foreign startups with specialized talent requirements.