The UAE labour market has once again demonstrated remarkable growth. As of January 2025, 131,883 UAE Nationals are employed in the private sector — a significant leap from 91,773 in 2023, reflecting a 43.7% increase in just two years. Since the launch of NAFIS in 2021, more than 94,900 Emiratis have joined the private sector. Similarly, the number of private-sector companies employing Emiratis rose from 19,000 in 2023 to 28,000 by the end of 2024 — an increase of 47.3%, underscoring the private sector’s growing commitment to Emiratisation. The labour market’s overall health is also evident in broader workforce metrics. Labour mobility reached 9% in 2024, pointing to a dynamic and evolving talent landscape. 99% of workers are now registered under the Wages Protection System (WPS), enhancing transparency and wage compliance. Moreover, over 95% of private-sector companies are now fully compliant with offering genuine employment opportunities to Emiratis, a milestone that reflects the strength of enforcement and the growing maturity of labour market systems. These achievements not only mark progress but reflect the nation’s strategic vision — one that places human capital at the centre of sustainable development. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) remains committed to enabling meaningful Emirati participation across all economic sectors, promoting a diversified labour force, and building a resilient private sector. We extend our appreciation to our partners across the public and private sectors who continue to support these efforts. Let this guidebook serve not only as a resource, but as a catalyst for further dialogue, collaboration, and action. Together, we are shaping a workforce that is future-ready, competitive, and firmly rooted in national values. Foreword Warm regards, HE Dr. Farida Abdulla Al Ali Assistant Undersecretary of National Talents 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 0 1