MoHRE Reports 405 Cases Of Fake Emiratisation In Companies So Far In 2026
MoHRE Reports 405 Cases Of Fake Emiratisation In Companies So Far In 2026. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has revealed that 405 cases of Fake Emiratisation were identified in private sector companies during the first half of 2026. This revelation highlights the Ministry’s firm stance against unlawful employment practices that undermine the objectives of the UAE Emiratisation policy.
In this article, we will explore the definition of Fake Emiratisation, the legal actions taken, the impact on the UAE labour market, and the incentives for compliant companies. Additionally, we will examine how the Nafis programme supports Emiratis, and why the Ministry is urging citizens to report fraudulent practices.
What is Fake Emiratisation?
Fake Emiratisation refers to the nominal or false hiring of UAE nationals, where companies issue work permits and register them as employees without providing real job opportunities. These arrangements may include:
- Employment contracts with formal documentation but no real work duties.
- Positions created only to meet Emiratisation targets without actual skill development.
- Schemes designed to illegally access government support offered under programmes like Nafis.
Definition by MoHRE
The Ministry defines Fake Emiratisation as the nominal employment of UAE citizens for purposes other than the real objectives of the work permit. This includes bypassing Emiratisation quotas or misusing government incentives tied to the training and recruitment of Emirati talent.
The Scale of Fake Emiratisation in 2026
MoHRE’s report confirms that 405 violations of Fake Emiratisation were detected in H1 2025. These cases were identified through a combination of field inspections and digital monitoring systems that track suspicious employment activity.
| Period | Cases Detected | Monitoring Tools Used |
|---|---|---|
| H1 2025 | 405 | Field Inspections + Digital Monitoring |
| H2 2024 | Data Not Disclosed | — |
This table clearly shows the effectiveness of MoHRE’s monitoring tools, which have proven vital in safeguarding the UAE labour market against exploitative practices.
Legal Framework and Penalties
MoHRE has taken strict action against non-compliant companies under Cabinet Decision No. (43) of 2025. This legislation outlines administrative violations and penalties related to the initiatives and programmes of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC).
Penalties for companies involved in Fake Emiratisation include:
- Heavy fines.
- Suspension of government-related privileges.
- Possible legal prosecution for fraudulent practices.
- Exclusion from Emiratisation support programmes.
These penalties aim to ensure that Emiratisation remains a genuine initiative to empower UAE citizens, rather than a tool for companies to unlawfully gain benefits.
Why Fake Emiratisation is a Problem
Fake Emiratisation undermines the long-term vision of the UAE’s national workforce strategy. Instead of creating meaningful opportunities, companies exploit loopholes, depriving Emiratis of real career growth.
Key Negative Impacts
- Weakening Emirati human capital by preventing skill development.
- Misuse of government funds allocated for training and employment.
- Erosion of trust between citizens and private sector employers.
- Hindrance to national development goals outlined in the UAE Vision 2031.
MoHRE emphasizes that while Fake Emiratisation cases exist, they represent a limited negative practice and do not constitute a widespread phenomenon in the UAE labour market.
Emiratisation Policy and National Goals
The Emiratisation policy is a cornerstone of the UAE’s labour market reforms, ensuring that Emirati nationals play an active role in the private sector. The policy is backed by the Nafis programme, which provides training, financial support, and career development for citizens.
Objectives of Emiratisation:
- Increase Emirati participation in priority sectors such as finance, technology, and healthcare.
- Build a sustainable and skilled workforce for the future.
- Ensure UAE nationals are employed in real, skilled positions, not symbolic roles.
- Strengthen the national economy by integrating citizens into the private sector.
| Emiratisation Target | Annual Growth Requirement |
|---|---|
| Private Sector Hiring of Emiratis | +2% each year |
This table highlights the semi-annual Emiratisation goals, which companies must meet by creating genuine and impactful employment opportunities.
MoHRE Support for Compliant Companies
While strict penalties exist for violators, MoHRE also rewards companies that comply with Emiratisation policies. Such companies are granted membership in the Emiratisation Partners Club, which provides a wide range of benefits.
Benefits for Compliant Companies:
- 80% reduction in Ministry transaction fees.
- Priority access to government procurement contracts, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance.
- Wage support and subsidies for hiring UAE citizens through the Nafis programme.
- Enhanced reputation as a trusted employer of Emirati talent.
These incentives not only reduce costs for companies but also encourage long-term investment in Emirati human capital.
The Role of the Nafis Programme
The Nafis programme, launched as part of the UAE’s vision to empower its workforce, plays a central role in Emiratisation.
Key Features of Nafis
- Wage subsidies for Emiratis working in the private sector.
- Training and upskilling opportunities for nationals.
- Financial support for companies meeting Emiratisation targets.
- Career development initiatives in strategic sectors.
By offering both financial assistance and professional development, Nafis ensures that Emiratis are not only hired but also prepared to thrive in competitive industries.
Reporting Fake Emiratisation
MoHRE urges all UAE citizens and residents to report cases of Fake Emiratisation if they encounter suspicious practices. Reports can be filed through:
- Call Centre: 600590000
- Labour Claims & Advisory Hotline: 80084
- MoHRE Smart Application
- Official Website
This reporting system strengthens the Ministry’s monitoring capacity and ensures that violations are swiftly addressed.
Conclusion
The detection of 405 Fake Emiratisation cases in H1 2026 highlights the UAE’s ongoing challenge of safeguarding the integrity of its labour market. However, MoHRE’s strict legal action, combined with incentives for compliant companies, demonstrates the government’s balanced approach.
