Emiratisation is a national workforce policy introduced by the UAE government to increase UAE National participation in the private sector, reduce reliance on expatriate labour, and build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. It is a core component of the “We The UAE 2031 Vision,” which aims to double the country's GDP from $405.6 billion to $816.7 billion by 2031. One of the Vision’s four pillars — ‘Forward Society’ — specifically focuses on empowering Emiratis to play leading roles in the country’s growth across all sectors. Since 2022, Emiratisation efforts have been regulated through a set of structured targets and incentive-based frameworks, supported by key national programmes such as NAFIS, part of the 'Projects of the 50'. These initiatives continue to drive employment, skills development, and long-term private sector integration of Emiratis. Emiratisation is no longer just about meeting targets – it is about fostering a workforce equipped with the skills and opportunities to drive national progress. Initiatives such as NAFIS, launched under the 'Projects of the 50,' continue to play a key role in upskilling Emiratis and positioning them in meaningful, high-impact roles within the private sector. Emiratisation ensures that the country’s human capital is effectively utilised in shaping its economic future. The objectives of Emiratisation remain clear — expanding job opportunities for Emiratis, diversifying the labour force, enhancing workforce capabilities, and ensuring long-term economic sustainability. The remarkable progress achieved so far signals that Emiratisation is not just an initiative but a transformative movement shaping the UAE’s future workforce. More than 131,000 UAE citizens now employed in the private sector Emiratisation Progress Timeline (2021-2025) 35,848 UAE Nationals employed in the private sector — the baseline year for Emiratisation progress. Emiratisation targets officially introduced; private sector employment of Emiratis rose to 60,136. Employment of UAE Nationals reached 91,773, reflecting a 156% increase since 2021. Over 19,000 companies onboarded. A significant surge: 131,883 Emiratis employed, and 28,000 companies engaged, marking a 267.8% growth from baseline. Emiratisation targets continue through semi-annual growth requirements. The UAE labour market shows: • 13.23% growth in skilled labour • 20.95% increase in women’s participation • 9% labour mobility rate • 17.02% growth in registered companies 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Year Key Milestones M A K I N G E M I R AT I S AT I O N A S U C C E S S 2 0 2 5 - G U I D E B O O K 1 2 Key Emiratisation Policies (2025) M A K I N G E M I R AT I S AT I O N A S U C C E S S 2 0 2 5 - G U I D E B O O K 1 3