UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced that 565 companies have been fined and are facing legal consequences for engaging in bogus Emiratisation practices since mid-last year.
These companies hired 824 UAE nationals in fake jobs to meet Emiratisation quotas without providing real tasks or responsibilities.
Fines imposed on the companies range from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000, and some may face potential referral to Public Prosecution, depending on the severity of the violation.
The action is in accordance with the UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2023, which modifies penalties and fines related to Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council’s (Nafis) programs.
MoHRE clarified that fake Emiratisation occurs when a UAE national holds a nominal position without real tasks, or when an Emirati is rehired in the same company to exploit Emiratisation benefits.
Companies caught violating these rules will not only face fines but will also be downgraded to the lowest category within MoHRE’s classification system, resulting in higher fees for ministry services.
The Ministry highlighted that its digital and field monitoring systems have effectively tracked these violations.
Despite the infractions, MoHRE noted that over 17,000 private establishments currently employ more than 81,000 Emiratis, marking the highest number in the country’s history.