Boost Localization: Private Sector Urged to Meet Nationalization Targets by Year-End

The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is pushing private companies to meet their 2025 hiring quotas for Emirati nationals before December 31st. Companies that miss these targets will face financial penalties starting January 1, 2026.

Here's how the system works. Companies with 50 or more employees must increase their Emirati workforce by 2% in skilled positions before the year ends. Some smaller businesses with 20-49 employees in fast-growing sectors also need to hire at least one Emirati citizen and keep their current Emirati staff.

The ministry praised private companies for following these employment policies since they started. This shows how businesses understand their role in supporting the national economy and helping Emiratis find jobs in the private sector.

Companies can use the "Nafis" platform to connect with job-seeking Emiratis across different fields. This helps them meet their hiring requirements more easily.

But the ministry isn't just offering help - it's also watching closely. They use artificial intelligence tools to catch companies trying to fake their hiring numbers or get around the rules. Companies that break the rules face legal action, lower ratings in the ministry's classification system, and must fix their violations.

Citizens can report any violations or negative practices through the ministry's call center at 600590000 or through their app and website, which maintain high privacy standards.

The ministry rewards companies that do well with their Emiratisation efforts. Top performers can join the "Emiratisation Partners Club," which gives them up to 80% discounts on ministry services and priority status in government procurement. These benefits help companies grow their business while supporting the country's rapidly expanding job market.