JobXDubai

The battle against deceptive employment practices took a significant turn in the UAE as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) enforced stringent measures on companies engaging in ‘fake Emiratisation’. With fines reaching up to AED100,000 ($27,200), the action serves as a deterrent to firms attempting to meet Emiratisation quotas through dubious means.

Recent figures released by MoHRE indicate that 565 firms recruited 824 UAE nationals into positions that did not meet the genuine employment criteria set by the Emiratisation policy since the latter half of the previous year. As a result, these firms now face substantial legal and administrative consequences.

The UAE has witnessed a remarkable increase in nationals employed within the private sector — currently surpassing 81,000 across 17,000 private businesses. This surge to record-high Emiratisation levels is a testament to the nation’s commitment to integrating UAE nationals into diverse job markets.

Nevertheless, the phenomenon of ‘fake Emiratisation’ — the act of hiring Emirati citizens for superficial positions solely to comply with quotas — undermines this progress. MoHRE has responded by utilizing sophisticated tracking systems to monitor compliance with regulations and Nafis programme standards.

Businesses found violating these standards have been subject to penalties, including reduced classification within MoHRE’s system, hefty fines, and possible legal action, emphasizing the government’s resolve to uphold the integrity of the Emiratisation campaign.

The Ministry has also targeted UAE nationals complicit in these practices by halting Nafis benefits and reclaiming prior financial support, aligning with the UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2023, amending the penalties related to the Nafis programmes.

Despite these areas of concern, the Ministry lauds the vast majority of private organizations for their commitment to Emiratisation targets, highlighting the critical role of public-private alliances in bolstering the UAE’s economy.

MoHRE encourages the public to play an active role in safeguarding the Emiratisation initiative by reporting any transgressions through their helpline or via the Ministry’s digital platforms.

Job seekers in Dubai and the UAE must remain vigilant in this evolving employment landscape, where transparency and authentic opportunities are increasingly valued and enforced.