Dubai will raise the minimum salary for Emirati private-sector employees to AED 6,000 per month from January 1, 2026, after the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced the change, affecting employers across the emirate as compliance deadlines approach mid-year.
What changed in Dubai’s wage framework
Dubai will require private companies to meet a higher salary floor for Emirati nationals. The new threshold stands at AED 6,000 per month. Earlier, the minimum level stood at AED 5,000.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation applies the rule to new, renewed, and amended work permits. Employers must adjust existing salaries by June 30, 2026. Enforcement measures begin the following day.
How the rule applies across the market
The Dubai rule applies only to UAE citizens working in the private sector. It does not extend to expatriate workers. The UAE labour system still lacks a universal wage floor for non-nationals.
However, the policy marks a shift in how compensation standards operate. For years, Dubai relied on market-driven pay structures. Federal law only required wages to meet basic living needs.
Salary benchmarks and sector context
Alongside the mandate, MoHRE continues to publish salary benchmarks. University graduates often receive guidance at AED 12,000 per month. Skilled technicians align closer to AED 7,000. Secondary school certificate holders typically earn around AED 5,000.
Dubai salary levels vary by sector. IT roles range from AED 12,000 to AED 45,000. Banking and finance pay between AED 15,000 and AED 65,000. Retail and hospitality roles often fall between AED 4,000 and AED 15,000.
Impact on employers and compliance timelines
Dubai employers now face payroll updates and contract revisions. Non-compliant firms risk exclusion from Emiratisation quotas. They may also face suspension of new work permits from July 1, 2026.
The ministry retains authority to expand wage regulation in future. For now, the Dubai policy reinforces Emiratisation goals while setting clearer salary expectations for citizen employees.
