UAE companies have until June 30 to meet Emiratisation targets for the first half of 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

The ministry stated that targets require a 1 percent growth in the employment of UAE citizens in skilled jobs at companies with 50 or more employees.

This is in accordance with decisions by the UAE Cabinet.

In a press statement, the ministry explained that starting from July 1, it will begin verifying the level of compliance among companies in terms of meeting their required targets before imposing the corresponding financial contributions to non-compliant establishments, WAM reported.

The ministry commended companies that have achieved the required growth, emphasising the necessity of registering Emirati citizens in a pension fund and the Wage Protection System (WPS).

It urged these firms to ensure growth rates are maintained until 30 June.

The ministry reiterated its confidence in companies’ ability to fulfil their commitments in light of the rapid economic growth transforming the UAE across all business sectors, noting that the recruitment of UAE citizens in private sector jobs has added significant value to the business sector, WAM said.

Companies that have yet to meet targets were encouraged to use the Nafis Programme’s digital platform. This allows access to qualified Emirati job seekers across various specialisations.