Emiratisation Statistics 2026: Emiratis in the Private Sector
More than 190,000 Emiratis work in the UAE private sector across nearly 32,000 companies, and 95% of companies covered by Emiratisation targets met the first-half 2026 target, according to MoHRE in July 2026. More than 123,000 Emirati women work in the private sector. Every figure here carries its date and source.
Headline figures
| Measure | Figure | As of | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emiratis in private-sector jobs | More than 190,000 | July 2026 | MoHRE |
| Companies employing them | Nearly 32,000 | July 2026 | MoHRE |
| Covered companies meeting H1 2026 target | 95% | July 2026 | MoHRE |
| Emirati women in the private sector | More than 123,000 | August 2026 | MoHRE |
| Programme target, private-sector Emiratis | 75,000 by 2026; 170,000 by 2031 | Nafis targets | u.ae |
| Employer target, 50+ employees | 10% of skilled roles by end 2026 | 2026 | MoHRE |
| Banking target | 45% by end 2026 | April 2026 | Central Bank |
| Insurance target | 30% by end 2026 | April 2026 | Central Bank |
The national employment figure (190,000+) has already passed the original Nafis programme target of 75,000 by 2026.
Why we date every figure
Emiratisation numbers move quickly and much published material carries no date. Figures such as 176,000 still circulate from earlier releases. If you cite a statistic in a board paper or article, cite its date too. Download our verified facts as JSON.
Sources
- 95% of UAE private-sector firms meet Emiratisation targets, employ over 190,000 Emiratis. People Matters ME, quoting MoHRE, July 2026.
- More than 123,000 Emirati women in the UAE private sector. StrongYes, reporting MoHRE, 29 August 2026.
- CBUAE Emiratisation progress. Central Bank of the UAE, 22 April 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.