UAE Extends Nafis Program to 2040, Strengthening Emiratisation Efforts
The United Arab Emirates has announced a significant extension of its flagship Nafis program, now set to run until 2040. This move underscores a long-term commitment to bolstering Emiratisation and creating more opportunities for national talent within the private sector. The decision was revealed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, acting under the directives of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
New Initiatives and Enhanced Benefits
Alongside the extension, authorities have launched a series of new initiatives aimed at providing social and workforce support. These include a dedicated program to assist the children of Emirati mothers employed in the private sector, as well as a separate initiative focused on supporting the wives of Emirati citizens working in private companies. In a key enhancement, the children’s allowance under Nafis has been expanded by removing the cap on the number of children covered, a change expected to promote family stability and encourage greater participation of Emiratis in private sector roles.
Impressive Program Uptake and Impact
The Nafis program has already demonstrated substantial success, with 176,000 Emiratis employed through its initiatives to date. Of these, 152,000 are currently working in the private sector. Notably, women constitute 74 per cent of the beneficiaries, highlighting the program's role in promoting gender inclusivity. Additionally, 38,000 individuals have received support via the children’s allowance program. Employer engagement has also been robust, with approximately 32,000 companies now employing Emirati talent under Nafis, reflecting a growing shift towards private sector participation.
What is the Nafis Program?
Nafis is a federal initiative launched by the UAE to enhance the competitiveness of Emirati nationals and increase their involvement in the private sector. The program aims to enable 75,000 Emiratis to secure private sector jobs by 2025. It mandates that companies with more than 50 employees meet specific hiring quotas for Emiratis. To facilitate this, Nafis offers comprehensive support, including salary subsidies, training programs, and financial incentives, helping nationals transition into and maintain private sector employment.
Why This Extension Matters
The extension of Nafis to 2040 aligns with the UAE’s long-term strategy to reduce reliance on public sector employment and strengthen the role of citizens in the private sector. By expanding benefits such as family support and removing limits on children’s allowances, the program addresses critical social factors that influence career decisions, making private sector roles more attractive and viable for Emiratis. On a broader scale, Nafis is designed to foster a more balanced and sustainable labor market, where national talent plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth and aligning workforce development with the country’s future economic priorities.
