At a session during the UAE Government Annual Meetings on Nov. 10, Human Resources and Emiratisation Minister Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar said the Nafis program, launched in 2021, was followed by a 404% rise in Emiratis working in the country, Gulf News reported.
At the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2026, Al Awar also reported that women’s participation in the labor market increased about 109% over the same period. He said the number of skilled workers grew 50%, the total workforce expanded 104% and the number of companies rose 46%.
Al Awar credited government policies and cooperation with private businesses for the gains. He said those partnerships support job creation, help attract international talent and contribute to economic growth. He also said the government aims to increase Emirati participation in the private sector, build workforce skills and productivity, retain international talent and widen opportunities for women.
The minister cited several measures covering wages and worker insurance. The UAE Wage Protection System processes about Dh37 billion in salary payments each month, he said. Workers’ protection insurance reaches 99% of private-sector employees, while unemployment insurance covers 93% of private-sector workers. Private-sector employees and domestic workers are included in health insurance, according to Al Awar.
The authorities have a labor-market simulation model with a horizon through 2031, Al Awar said. He said it is intended to help officials prepare for changes in employment patterns and shape policies using data and artificial intelligence.
For the next phase of employment and skills policies, the government plans to focus on fields expected to create lasting jobs. Al Awar listed advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, technology, data, health care, life sciences, aviation, aerospace, advanced energy and sustainability.
