The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, operating through the Nafis programme, has issued a formal reminder that all private-sector employers are mandated to provide a minimum monthly wage of Dhs6,000 to UAE citizens. This requirement aligns with existing Cabinet decisions and specific resolutions established by the Central Bank of the UAE. The Council emphasized that failing to meet this salary threshold is a direct violation of national labor regulations.
This directive serves as a critical component of the broader national strategy to bolster the professional standing of Emiratis within the private sector and advance the goals of the country’s Emiratisation agenda. By ensuring fair compensation, the government aims to create a stable and attractive work environment that encourages citizens to pursue long-term careers in private enterprises.
To uphold these standards, Nafis has urged workers to utilize official government channels if they believe their employers are not adhering to the mandated wage structure. Employees can lodge formal complaints with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which oversees labor relations and resolves employment disputes. Additionally, the Labour Consultation and Claims Centre remains available to provide guidance on legal procedures and individual employment rights.
The Council underscored that these monitoring and reporting mechanisms are essential for protecting the financial entitlements of Emirati staff. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant regarding their contractual rights and to seek clarification from the appropriate authorities whenever they have concerns about their compensation or other benefits.
The Nafis programme continues to play a pivotal role in the UAE’s economic development by offering various initiatives that support the professional growth and competitiveness of the national workforce. These efforts are designed to assist both job seekers and private companies in meeting their respective Emiratisation obligations.
The commitment to these initiatives was further solidified in April 2026, when His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, announced the extension of the Nafis programme until 2040. This decision, made in implementation of directives from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reflects the leadership’s dedication to cementing the role of Emirati citizens as key partners in the nation’s ongoing economic and social progress.