The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has called upon private sector enterprises, governed by Emiratization regulations, to fulfill their Emiratization objectives for 2024 by December 31.
These Emiratization goals pertain to organizations with 50 or more employees, which are required to achieve a 2 percent increase in the Emiratization of skilled roles by the end of this year.
The same deadline applies to specified establishments within the 20-49 employee range, particularly those engaged in rapidly expanding economic sectors that can provide employment and a conducive work environment. These entities must hire at least one Emirati national and retain any Emirati nationals employed prior to January 1, 2024.
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Growing compliance among private sector
In a recent press release, MoHRE expressed optimism regarding the awareness levels of private sector companies and their compliance with Emiratization policies, highlighting that adherence has reached unprecedented heights, with over 124,000 Emirati nationals employed across 23,000 private firms.
Commitment to Emiratization success
The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the remarkable achievements and outstanding results of the Emiratization initiative, aligning with the UAE’s ambitious strategic and economic objectives to become the world’s fastest-growing economy, transition to a knowledge-based economy, and enhance the sustainability and leadership of the country’s comprehensive development efforts.
Utilizing the Nafis program
MoHRE encouraged companies to leverage the Nafis program to connect with Emirati nationals seeking job opportunities across various fields. It underscored the importance of enrolling Emirati nationals employed by these companies in the UAE’s pension, retirement, and social security systems, as well as ensuring the proper transfer of their monthly salaries through the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Benefits for Tawteen Partners Club members
The Ministry confirmed its ongoing support for companies that are part of the Tawteen Partners Club, offering benefits such as financial discounts of up to 80 percent on services provided by MoHRE, along with priority access in the government procurement system, which enhances business growth opportunities.
Monitoring for fraud prevention
Additionally, the Ministry highlighted the efficiency of its monitoring system in detecting fraudulent activities, such as false Emiratization claims and attempts to bypass Emiratization objectives. It stated that legal actions will be pursued against non-compliant companies, including downgrading their classification within the Ministry’s establishment classification system, mandating corrective actions, and referring their cases to the relevant court.
Financial penalties for non-compliance
Financial penalties are also imposed on companies that fail to comply, amounting to AED96,000 for each Emirati national not hired in accordance with the Emiratization targets.
Guidance for job seekers
MoHRE urged Emirati nationals seeking employment to verify the authenticity of job offers and to avoid involvement in fraudulent activities or fake Emiratization claims. This is crucial for preserving their access to Nafis benefits.
The Ministry also encouraged individuals to report any negative practices that contradict Emiratization policies by reaching out to the call center at 600590000 or through the Ministry’s application and website.