MoHRE and Emiratisation: What the Ministry Governs
MoHRE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين), regulates private-sector employment on the UAE mainland. It sets and enforces Emiratisation targets, issues work permits, classifies establishments and collects the contribution when targets are missed. It does not run Nafis, which belongs to the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council.
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full name | Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation |
| Arabic | وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين |
| Scope | Mainland private sector |
| Sets | Emiratisation targets and assessment dates |
| Enforces | The contribution for missed targets; penalties for fake Emiratisation |
| Also runs | Work permits, labour contracts, establishment classification, WPS |
| Call centre | 600590000 |
What MoHRE governs
- Targets: two percentage points a year in the Emirati share of skilled roles for establishments with 50 or more employees, assessed on 30 June and 31 December.
- Contributions: AED 10,000 a month per unfilled position from 1 July 2026.
- Work permits: where the AED 6,000 minimum salary for Emiratis is checked.
- Classification: the establishment rating that sets work permit fees, influenced by Emiratisation performance.
- Emiratisation Partners Club: up to 80% off MoHRE service fees and procurement priority for companies that exceed targets.
What MoHRE does not govern
| Area | Who governs it |
|---|---|
| Nafis salary support, allowances, eligibility | Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council |
| Banking and insurance targets | Central Bank of the UAE |
| Free zone employment | Each free zone authority (DIFC and ADGM have their own laws) |
| Pensions for Emiratis | GPSSA |
Getting it right
Calling it the Ministry of Labour. The name changed, and Emiratisation is in it because it is central to the mandate.
Assuming MoHRE runs Nafis. It points employers to the Nafis platform, but the council runs the programme.
Waiting for MoHRE to tell you your number. Your obligation comes from your own skilled headcount. Work it out with the calculator.
Frequently asked questions
01What does MoHRE stand for?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the UAE federal ministry for private-sector employment on the mainland.
02Does MoHRE run Nafis?
No. Nafis is run by the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council. MoHRE enforces employer targets and directs employers to the Nafis platform.
03How do I report a fake Emiratisation case?
Through MoHRE's call centre on 600590000, its website or its smart app. MoHRE says reports are confidential.
Sources
- MoHRE: 30 June 2026 deadline statement. WAM via Zawya, 2026.
- MoHRE warns UAE firms ahead of Emiratisation deadline. Gulf News, 2026.
This page explains UAE Emiratisation rules for general information. It is not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm against the official MoHRE, Nafis or Central Bank source linked above before acting. StrongYes is an independent publication and is not affiliated with MoHRE, Nafis, the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council or any UAE government body. Full disclaimer.