ABU DHABI: The UAE has warned private companies to implement Emiratization before December 31 or face severe financial penalties. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization has informed that if they do not comply with the instructions, they will have to pay a fine by January 1,2026.

Emiratization affects companies with fifty or more employees. The directive is that such companies should increase the number of citizens in the country by two percent before the end of this year. Some selected companies with 20 to 49 employees will also be included in the Emiratization list. Companies in fast-growing economic sectors are selected in this way. At least one citizen must be appointed in these companies before January 1,2026.

It has been warned that legal action will be taken against companies that do not comply with the directive. Such companies will be downgraded in the Ministry's Establishment Classification System and will demand to correct their status. The ministry also advises companies to contact the Nafees platform to find job seekers. The Ministry also announced that companies that meet the conditions will receive various forms of support, from the Nafees program and its extensive benefits to the Emiratization Partners Club.