UAE’s Nafis reaffirms Dhs6,000 minimum wage for Emiratis in private sector

The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, represented by the Nafis programme, has reaffirmed that the minimum monthly wage for UAE citizens working in the private sector is Dhs6,000, in line with the Cabinet's decision and the relevant resolution issued by the Central Bank of the UAE.

The Council stressed that private-sector employers are required to comply with the minimum wage requirement and that failure to meet the prescribed threshold constitutes a violation of the applicable regulations.

The clarification comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the position of Emirati employees in the private sector and support the objectives of the UAE's Emiratisation programme.

Nafis has encouraged UAE citizens who believe their employers are not complying with the minimum wage requirement to use the official channels available to them to report violations and seek assistance.

Citizens can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which is responsible for regulating labour relations and addressing employment-related disputes in the private sector.

They can also contact the Labour Consultation and Claims Centre to obtain guidance and assistance regarding their employment rights and available legal procedures.

The Council's reminder highlights the importance of ensuring that Emirati employees receive the financial entitlements stipulated under the country's regulations. It also reinforces the role of monitoring and complaint mechanisms in addressing potential violations in the private sector.

The Nafis programme is part of the UAE's broader strategy to increase the participation and competitiveness of Emirati citizens in the private sector by supporting their employment, career development and professional growth.

The programme provides a range of initiatives aimed at encouraging Emiratis to pursue private-sector careers while supporting employers in meeting Emiratisation requirements.

The Council urged citizens to remain aware of their employment rights and use official government channels when seeking clarification or reporting concerns regarding their wages or other contractual entitlements.

Employers, meanwhile, are expected to comply with the applicable regulations and ensure that the wages and benefits provided to Emirati employees meet the requirements set by the UAE authorities.

In April 2026, in implementation of the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC), announced the extension of the Nafis programme until 2040.

The announcement reflects the wise leadership's commitment to sustaining Emiratization programmes, creating an attractive and stable work environment for Emirati citizens, and cementing their role as a key partner in the UAE's comprehensive economic and social development journey.