MoHRE flags 405 cases of ‘Fake Emiratisation’ in companies in the first half of 2025

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) made an announcement. It detected 405 cases of ‘Fake Emiratisation’ in private sector companies. This occurred during the first half of 2025 (H1 2025).

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced a finding. It detected 405 cases of ‘Fake Emiratisation’ in private sector companies. This occurred during the first half of 2025 (H1 2025).

The Ministry asserted that legal action has been taken against companies involved in ‘Fake Emiratisation’ schemes. This is in line with Cabinet Decision No. (43) of 2025 About Administrative Violations and Penalties Related to Initiatives and Programmes of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC).

In a press statement, MoHRE stressed the efficiency of its field inspections and digital monitoring system. These tools are effective in detecting negative practices. Chief among these is the ‘Fake Emiratisation’ scheme. This is considered a limited negative practice and does not constitute a worrying phenomenon in the UAE labor market.

The Ministry also reaffirmed its commitment. It plans to deal firmly and decisively with companies that fail to follow Emiratisation policies and decisions. It highlighted the negative repercussions of ‘Fake Emiratisation’ schemes on the broader objectives of Emiratisation efforts. These efforts go beyond employing UAE citizens. They aim to develop a productive and sustainable Emirati human capital in the private sector.

Emiratisation plans allow Emirati talents to actively engage in the country’s development journey. They contribute more significantly to the national economy, especially in priority sectors targeted by semi-annual Emiratisation goals. The MoHRE statement continues, noting that these goals need enhancing UAE citizens’ competency within real skilled jobs. In these roles, they carry out duties that truly advance their capabilities.

The Ministry commended the private sector’s commitment to Emiratisation policies, decisions, and targets. It affirmed its continued support for compliant companies by including them in the Emiratisation Partners Club. This inclusion enables them to get 80% reductions on Ministry deal fees. It also grants them priority in the government procurement system, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance. Compliant establishments gain from the support provided by the Nafis Programmes for UAE citizens’ wages. They also enjoy other benefits and advantages.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation urged UAE citizens and community members to avoid being misled by non-compliant companies. They should report cases of ‘Fake Emiratisation’ they face. Reports can be made to the call center at 600590000 or the Labor Claims and Advisory Call Center at 80084. Alternatively, use the MoHRE smart application or official website.

‘Fake Emiratisation’ refers to the nominal employment of UAE citizens. A company issues a work authorization for them. Nonetheless, it registers them as employees for purposes other than those for which the approval was issued.

These companies typically sign an employment contract with UAE nationals that has all the formal elements but lacks the essential tenets of a real employment relationship, in a bid to circumvent decisions regulating the employment of Emirate citizens in the private sector, including Emiratisation targets, or for the purpose of unlawfully benefiting from government support systems and incentives related to the employment and training of UAE