Highlights
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation expands Emiratisation target to include companies with 20 to 49 employees.
- Senior industry executive highlights the advantages of hiring UAE nationals, including their understanding of local culture and sensitivities.
- Emirati employees play a crucial role in identifying opportunities for private sector engagement with government entities and family-owned businesses.
- Around 79,000 UAE nationals currently employed in the private sector, driving the need for investment in local talent.
- Nationals prioritize growth and learning, often willing to take a pay cut to join multinationals for exposure to international practices and diverse fields.
The UAE’s Emiratisation initiative takes a significant step forward as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation expands the target for private companies. Now, businesses with 20 to 49 employees are also required to hire at least one Emirati employee by 2024, expanding the program beyond larger firms.
A senior industry executive emphasizes the value of hiring UAE nationals, highlighting their deep understanding of local culture and sensitivities. Emiratis play a vital role in helping private sector entities identify opportunities in the public sector and family-owned businesses, making them valuable assets to bridge connections and foster cooperation.
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Khalid Farooq, Partner Risk and Forensic Advisory Services of BDO UAE, stresses the importance of taking Emiratisation seriously not only to avoid penalties but also due to the positive impact it can have on companies engaging with government entities or seeking collaboration with family businesses.
As per recent data, approximately 79,000 UAE nationals currently work in the private sector. In light of this, Farooq advises private companies to invest in the UAE national workforce, as this can attract more local talent, even if the pay scale is lower.
For UAE nationals, personal growth and learning are top priorities, driving their willingness to join multinational firms and take a pay cut for the opportunity to learn from international practices and gain exposure in diverse fields.
Farooq strongly advises private entities to integrate Emirati employees as integral team members and assign them responsibilities that truly reflect their talents. This approach fosters a win-win situation for both employers and employees, contributing to the overall success and growth of the organization.
As the Emiratisation initiative gains traction, private firms in the UAE are recognizing the strategic advantages of hiring nationals, creating a path for economic growth and development in the region.
