Nafes: 58% Emirati Graduate Employment & 92% Goal Achievement

UAE’s ‘Nafis’ Program Drives Record Emirati Employment in the Private Sector

The UAE’s ambitious Emiratisation strategy is yielding significant results,with the “Nafis” program reporting a surge in Emirati citizens entering the private sector. Launched in September 2021 with a 24 billion dirham investment, Nafis has already achieved 92% of its goal to enable 170,000 citizens to work in private companies, demonstrating a fundamental shift in national employment trends.

A Landmark Shift in Private sector Engagement

During the annual “NAFES” Forum held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre – Expo Dubai, officials revealed that over 157,000 Emirati citizens are now employed in the private sector – a 437% increase from just 29,000 four years ago. This growth extends to the number of private sector establishments employing citizens, which has more than quadrupled from 7,000 to over 30,000. The program has also directly benefited over 132,000 citizens, with an additional 24,000 children of beneficiaries receiving a “children’s allowance.”

Empowering Future Generations Through Early Intervention

The Emirates Competitiveness Council announced a new strategy extending through 2026, focusing on empowering citizens from the early stages of education. This includes targeted training programs, school visits, and awareness initiatives for students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. Partnerships with strategic institutions will provide simulation opportunities in high-demand fields like engineering, automotive, and sales, preparing students for the jobs of the future.

Strategic Partnerships Fueling Workforce Development

To provide greater assistance to Emirati citizens. Senior citizens continuing to work in the private sector will now receive 13,000 dirhams, a 260% increase from the previous amount, while non-working retirees will receive 5,000 dirhams. New allowances, including an “inflation allowance” for beneficiary families, have been added to incentivize employment. A key principle guiding these changes, according to an assistant undersecretary, is that “if you want additional services, it is preferable to be in the labor market.” The ministry is also addressing concerns about citizens rejecting job offers for fear of losing support, committing to bridge the gap between employment income and the “decent life line” for over 800 families.

Inclusive Employment Opportunities for People of Determination

The Ministry of Family is prioritizing the employment of citizens of determination, with approximately 1,650 individuals joining the private sector in the past two years.The ministry actively participates in employment fairs and organizes dedicated events in collaboration with companies to facilitate these opportunities.

Expanding Opportunities in the Healthcare Sector

A pledge to create 1,000 new job opportunities for citizens within the healthcare sector was announced at the Nafs Forum, demonstrating a commitment to expanding professional pathways in this vital industry. This initiative underscores the UAE’s dedication to investing in its people and enhancing the competitiveness of national cadres.

Building a National Database for Future Workforce Planning

A collaborative effort between Nafis and the General Pensions and Social Security Authority is underway to create an integrated national database. This database will provide decision-makers with crucial insights for planning future job opportunities and supporting the national economy. The number of insured citizens in the private sector has increased by 96% over four years, while the Authority’s database shows a 400% increase in the total number of citizens employed in the private sector. Modern legislation, including raising the maximum insurance subscription limit to 70,000 dirhams, is bolstering confidence in private sector employment. The pension system, officials say, now offers the same benefits to private sector workers as it does to those in the government sector.

The “Wafra” initiative, a financial planning program in partnership with “Jahez” and “Nafis,” has already engaged over 6,400 citizens, promoting a culture of saving and investment. The “Shorek” project, launched in 2023, has facilitated seamless transitions for over 10,000 citizens between employers covered by the Authority, removing previous obstacles to career mobility. These initiatives collectively demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to a sustainable and thriving future for its citizens in the private sector.