Emiratisation targets: Over 152,000 Emiratis now in private sector
This is an increase from 100,000 in May of 2024, as reported by The National. Emirati citizens are currently employed across six main economic sectors such as business services, financial intermediation, trade, repair services, construction and manufacturing.
This is the result of various Emiratisation policies, initiatives, and the Nafis programme, guided by the vision of the UAE leadership. These talents continue to add value to business sustainability, growth and encourages an inclusive workplace.
Our latest statistics show that the number of Emirati citizens working in the private sector has surpassed 152,000, employed across more than 29,000 companies as of 30 June 2025, the deadline set for achieving Emiratisation targets for the first half of the year.
These ongoing… pic.twitter.com/fP1gu3HgCM
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) July 21, 2025 What is the Nafis Programme?
Nafis is a governmental programme aimed at increasing the competitiveness of the Emirati human resources and empowering them to occupy jobs in the United Arab Emirates' private sector over the next five years.
There are various benefits under the Nafis Programme such as salary support schemes, unemployement benefits, child-support schemes, training and more. You can find all of the information on nafis.gove.ae
Emirati government employees are now also entitled to 10 days paid marriage leave, in the first year of marriage. This can be taken in one block or in multiple instances throughout the first year of marriage.
Image: Getty Images
> Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
an hour ago
- Gulf Today
Gulf rail projects paving the way for connected, sustainable future
The Gulf region is witnessing an unprecedented rail boom that is setting the stage for a new era of regional integration and sustainable economic growth, according to David Franks, Managing Director of Keolis MHI. He said the transformation is being powered by multi-billion-dollar investments in modern infrastructure across the GCC. Franks noted that projects such as Etihad Rail in the UAE, the Hafeet Rail connection with Oman, and Saudi Arabia's Landbridge are central to a broader vision of regional connectivity. These initiatives, he added, are designed to link cities, ports, and economic hubs through a seamless network. The 2,177-kilometre GCC Railway project, he explained, reflects the shared ambition of Gulf states to create an integrated transport ecosystem. He highlighted the role of rail in achieving environmental sustainability, calling it one of the most energy-efficient and low-emission modes of transport. Franks pointed out that the region has already begun pioneering efforts in this area, most notably with Saudi Arabia's trial of a hydrogen-powered train, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Franks stressed that the ongoing transformation in Gulf transportation is underpinned by advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance systems, smart ticketing, and real-time passenger updates. These innovations, he said, are enhancing passenger experience while improving efficiency, safety, and operational excellence. He also emphasized Keolis MHI's commitment to this evolution, noting the company's global operating experience across four continents. Franks explained that Keolis MHI is actively transferring international best practices to the region, ensuring that safety, innovation, and quality are embedded into every aspect of operation. Beyond operations, Franks said Keolis MHI is also contributing to the development of smart, connected cities. This includes investing in local talent, supporting Emiratisation and localisation initiatives, and improving last-mile connectivity to enhance quality of life and foster inclusive transport systems. He underscored the importance of strong public-private partnerships in delivering long-term success for large-scale rail infrastructure. According to Franks, close collaboration between governments and operators is critical to ensure that projects are delivered efficiently, resiliently, and in line with public expectations. Franks outlined key milestones in the region's rail agenda. He noted that the second phase of Etihad Rail commenced operations in February 2023, extending the network to 900 kilometres. While freight services are operational, passenger services are still under planning. He also referenced the Hafeet Rail project—a $3 billion joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala—which aims to link Abu Dhabi with the port city of Sohar via a 303-kilometre line. On the Saudi front, Franks said the Landbridge Project consists of a 950-kilometre freight line between Jeddah and Riyadh, and an additional 115-kilometre track connecting Dammam to Jubail. This network, he stated, will significantly boost east-west freight movement across the Kingdom. Franks also hailed Saudi Arabia's hydrogen train pilot, conducted in 2024, as a regional milestone that signals a broader shift toward clean and sustainable transport technologies. Looking ahead, he said the GCC Railway Network, slated for completion by 2030, will redefine regional mobility by streamlining trade and facilitating smooth cross-border passenger movement across Gulf nations. Franks concluded by stating that the region's rail renaissance goes beyond infrastructure development. It represents a global model for modern, sustainable, and tech-enabled transport systems built on innovation, collaboration, and a forward-looking vision. In June, Keolis MHI participated at Middle East Rail 2025, the region's premier transport event, to share its expertise in shaping the future of sustainable, intelligent, and passenger-centric urban rail. With decades of experience operating some of the world's most complex and advanced rail networks, Keolis MHI has become a trusted partner for rail authorities and owners seeking operational excellence. Its global track record in delivering safe, reliable, and innovative rail services has positioned the company as the operator of choice for urban rail projects across the Middle East and beyond. In April, Keolis MHI successfully hosted its annual Sustainability Week under the banner of the 'Keolis MHI Way', reinforcing its commitment to environmental guardianship and people engagement. The week-long initiative united employees, partners, and stakeholders through webinars, on-ground activities, and eco-conscious competitions, spotlighting the company's role as a catalyst for sustainable urban mobility in line with the UAE's 2031 Vision and Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
Al Etihad
7 hours ago
- Al Etihad
Al Dhafra Youth Council organises first youth circle at Liwa Date Festival 2025
26 July 2025 16:07 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Al Dhafra Youth Council, in collaboration with the Nafis Youth Council, the UAE Youth Council for Entrepreneurship, and the UAE Youth Council for Agriculture, organised the first youth circle as part of the Liwa Dates Festival under the theme 'Agricultural Innovation.. An Opportunity for Youth in Entrepreneurship', the circle saw the attendance of key decision-makers, government officials, and young Emirati entrepreneurs working in the agricultural circle was attended by Dr Sultan Bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority; Ghannam Al Mazrouei, Secretary General of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis); and Moaza Al Nasri, Chief Executive Officer of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development. The attendees expressed their support for youth participation in further advancing the agricultural sector, and strengthening sustainability circle highlighted agriculture as a promising path for youth entrepreneurship, particularly in Al Dhafra region, and featured discussions of real-life experiences of young Emiratis who have successfully launched innovative projects after working in the private sector. Key topics included structural challenges in the agricultural market, and the need for targeted training and financial support to enable youth.A group of Emirati youth shared their inspiring entrepreneurial journeys, underscoring the importance of field experience in understanding the local market and launching projects that contribute to economic development and sustainable initiatives aimed at empowering youth and enhancing their presence in the agricultural sector were announced during the circle. These included the announcement of an agricultural guidebook by the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture, the designation of dedicated spaces for young entrepreneurs to showcase their products at upcoming agricultural festivals, and providing job opportunities for youth in agricultural fields within the private sector. The event concluded with the Youth Councils extending their gratitude to all participating and supporting entities and reaffirming its commitment to organising future circles that foster meaningful dialogue between youth and decision-makers, paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural future in the UAE. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Broadcast Pro
7 hours ago
- Broadcast Pro
Abu Dhabi's CMA and NG9 Group sign $15m production deal
Principal photography will begin in September, with local crews and Emirati talent, supporting ADFC's rebate programme to highlight Emirati culture and heritage. The Abu Dhabi Creative Media Authority (CMA) has entered into a strategic partnership with NG9 Group, a consortium comprising Nirvana Holding, Gewan Holding and 9Yards Group, to deliver a slate of major film and television projects valued at AED55m ($15m). The collaboration will launch with the production of two feature films and a 10-episode television series, all aimed at global distribution. Scheduled to begin principal photography in September, the productions will be filmed in Abu Dhabi using local crews and talent, both in front of and behind the camera. This aligns with the Abu Dhabi Film Commission's expanded rebate programme, which encourages productions that highlight Emirati culture and heritage, offering significant financial incentives for qualifying projects. As part of the agreement, CMA will offer comprehensive support including access to filming locations, talent development, casting services and eligibility for the ADFC cashback rebate. In return, NG9 Group will provide preferential services to film projects supported by the Film Commission, including discounted hotel stays, car rentals, flights and luxury transportation options such as yachts and private jets. Khalid Khouri, Director of Industry Development at the Creative Media Authority, said: 'As we work to position Abu Dhabi as one of the world's leading creative hubs, expanding our local industry offering remains a core focus. This exciting new partnership with extensive NG9 team opens up fresh opportunities for investment and collaboration, driving growth across the local economy.' Alaa Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of NG9 Holding, added: 'Aligned with our commitment to advancing the UAE's economy through innovation, local partnerships, sustainability, and community engagement, we are proud to collaborate with CMA. This partnership will not only deliver internationally distributed creative content but will also create career opportunities for talented young filmmakers from Abu Dhabi.' Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, commented: 'This collaboration adds value and aligns with our vision to attract additional production partners who can leverage and utilise our rebate programme – including those partners who are able to reflect our wide variety of filming locations on screen, employ our talented production specialists and businesses and showcase the rich cultural and social heritage of Abu Dhabi in engaging television and film content.' Rami Tmaish, General Manager of 9Yards Pictures, expressed his optimism about the partnership, highlighting its role in showcasing Emirati creativity on a global stage. He confirmed that efforts are already underway to identify Emirati talent in acting, directing, and writing to empower them locally and internationally. He also noted that this initiative will build a strong production ecosystem to enhance the presence of Emirati content with a modern and globally resonant spirit.
