Emiratisation – What Every UAE Employer Must Know (2025 Guide)

Emiratisation is a national initiative designed to increase the number of UAE nationals employed in the private sector. Managed by the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the NAFIS platform, it forms part of the UAE’s broader strategy to create a sustainable, diversified workforce. 

This guide explains who Emiratisation applies to, what quotas are required, and how to stay compliant to avoid fines. 

 

Who Emiratisation Applies To 

• Mainland companies with 50 or more employees under MOHRE jurisdiction. 

• Free Zone businesses are currently exempt, although some zones (e.g. DIFC, ADGM) encourage voluntary participation. 

If your business employs 50+ people, Emiratisation quotas are mandatory. 

The Current Emiratisation Quota (2025 Update) 

Year	Private Sector Requirement	Fine for Non-Compliance
2023	2% Emirati employees	AED 84,000 per missing national
2024	4% Emirati employees	AED 96,000 per missing national
2025	6% Emirati employees	AED 108,000 per missing national

By 2026, companies must reach 10% Emirati representation in skilled positions. 

How Emiratisation Is Calculated 

• Based on the number of skilled employees (those holding a diploma or higher and earning AED 4,000+ per month). 

• Each Emirati employee registered under your company’s MOHRE labour file counts toward the quota. 

• MOHRE verifies active contracts, WPS compliance, and NAFIS registration. 

NAFIS Platform 

The NAFIS platform connects Emirati jobseekers with private sector employers. Through NAFIS, employers can:

• Post job vacancies for Emirati candidates.
• Apply for wage support and government incentives.
• Monitor their Emiratisation compliance online. 

Benefits of Hiring Emiratis 

Financial support

Up to AED 7,000/month salary top-up (via NAFIS). 

Training and onboarding support

Government-backed programs help train and integrate Emirati hires, ensuring smooth onboarding and faster productivity. 

Corporate reputation

Aligning your company with UAE Vision 2031. 

Reduced penalties

Full compliance with Emiratisation quotas helps avoid annual fines, non-renewal of work permits, and other MOHRE enforcement actions.