The UAE has extended the Nafis programme until 2040. The decision marks a major shift in how the country approaches private sector employment for Emiratis.
Moreover, the programme has already exceeded expectations. It has placed over 176,000 Emiratis in jobs, with 152,000 currently active in the private sector.
From Targets to Transformation
The UAE launched Nafis in 2021 as part of the Projects of the 50. The goal was clear. It aimed to move Emiratis into private sector roles and reduce reliance on government jobs.
Initially, the target was 75,000 placements by 2025. However, the programme has already surpassed that number. As a result, it has reshaped employment trends across the country.
Today, 58% of Emirati graduates prefer private sector careers. This marks a sharp rise from just 15% before Nafis began.
Policy Push: Incentives, Quotas, and Enforcement
The programme combined financial incentives with strict hiring rules. For instance, companies with 50 or more employees had to increase Emirati hiring by 2% each year. In addition, the government introduced salary support schemes. These offered up to Dh8,000 per month for fresh graduates during training. They also provided up to Dh5,000 for continued employment support.
However, authorities also enforced compliance strictly. Companies that failed to meet targets faced financial penalties. Over time, these rules expanded to include smaller firms as well.
Stronger Focus on Families and Social Stability
The 2040 vision introduces new family-focused benefits. These align with the UAE’s broader social priorities.
For example, the Child Allowance Scheme no longer has a cap. Previously, families could claim benefits for only four children. Now, all eligible children receive support.
Furthermore, new programmes support the children of Emirati mothers and the wives of Emirati citizens in private sector roles. As a result, private jobs are becoming more attractive for families.
AI Integration to Shape Future Careers
Technology now plays a central role in Nafis. The updated strategy includes AI-driven tools to improve hiring quality and workforce planning. One key initiative is the “Promising Talents” platform. It uses AI to identify and develop young Emirati professionals.
Therefore, the focus is no longer just on employment numbers. Instead, the programme aims to build long-term, future-ready careers.
Crackdown on ‘Fake Emiratisation’
As Nafis expanded, enforcement also became stricter. Authorities targeted companies engaging in “fake Emiratisation.” The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has imposed heavy penalties. Fines have exceeded Dh34 million across more than 1,300 companies.
In addition, violators face permit suspensions and business restrictions. This ensures that job creation remains genuine and impactful.
Outlook: A Long-Term Workforce Reset
The extension to 2040 signals a deeper shift in policy. The UAE is now focusing on sustainable employment rather than short-term targets. Moreover, women account for 74% of Nafis beneficiaries. This highlights a broader social and economic transformation.
Therefore, Nafis is no longer just a hiring programme. It has become a key pillar of the UAE’s long-term workforce strategy.
