The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation identified the violations through field inspection campaigns and analysis of data shared by various government entities. Companies involved had submitted fictitious Emiratisation applications or listed Emirati nationals who performed no actual duties for the organisations. Legal action has been taken against the 266 private-sector companies and other parties as the ministry works to uphold labour market regulations.
MoHRE stated that the cases represent limited negative practices and do not constitute a widespread phenomenon in the UAE labour market. The ministry urged private-sector establishments and Emirati citizens to comply fully with Emiratisation policies and objectives. It invited reports of suspected fictitious practices by calling 600590000, using the MoHRE smart application or visiting the official website.
Penalties for fake Emiratisation are governed by Cabinet Decision No. 43 of 2025 on administrative violations related to the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council. Fines range from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000 per case with potential escalation to AED 500,000 for repeat offences and possible referral to public prosecution. The ministry also recovers any improperly obtained government incentives and withdraws associated benefits from involved nationals.
Private-sector companies with 50 or more employees must reach 10 per cent Emiratisation across skilled positions by the end of 2026 according to targets set by MoHRE. Non-compliant firms face monthly financial contributions of up to AED 10,000 for each unfilled skilled position starting from July with annualised costs reaching AED 120,000 per vacancy. A minimum salary requirement of AED 6,000 per month for Emirati employees in the private sector took effect on January 1 to support genuine employment relationships.
The ministry recorded 405 fake Emiratisation cases during the first half of 2025 and pursued legal measures against those involved at the time. Current monitoring combines digital systems with physical inspections to detect irregularities and preserve the integrity of national employment initiatives. MoHRE has reiterated its commitment to firm enforcement against any attempts to bypass regulations or exploit incentives designed for Emirati workforce participation.
The Nafis programme provides structured support for Emirati employment in the private sector through training, wage subsidies and related benefits according to government records. Positions only count toward targets when Emiratis are properly registered with the General Pension and Social Security Authority and compensated via the Wages Protection System. This framework aims to ensure meaningful integration rather than nominal compliance across the labour market.
