MoHRE identifies 377 cases of 'fake Emiratisation' within 266 private companies in 6 months

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has identified 377 instances of 'Fake Emiratisation' in 266 private sector companies during the first half of 2026. This discovery came through their field and digital monitoring efforts.

The Ministry has stated that legal proceedings are underway against the companies in violation of relevant laws and regulations. It emphasised that these instances are isolated and do not reflect a common trend in the UAE labor market.

MoHRE is committed to addressing any attempts to bypass Emiratisation policies or unlawfully gain from government incentives aimed at supporting the employment of Emirati citizens. They confirmed that the actions taken against these companies adhere to Cabinet Decision No. (43) of 2025 concerning administrative violations and penalties related to the initiatives and programs of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council.

Emiratisation is more than just registering a UAE citizen within a private organization, clarified the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The policy aims to establish a genuine and productive employment relationship that involves real tasks, responsibilities, and a career path, contributing to the development of the citizen’s skills and capabilities.

The Ministry warned that 'Fake Emiratisation' poses dangers beyond legal violations. Its negative effects extend to distorting labor market and Emiratisation indicators, squandering resources and incentives meant for real employment, depriving dedicated UAE citizens of true job opportunities and professional growth, and disadvantaging compliant businesses that genuinely invest in recruiting, training, and developing Emirati talents.

The core objective of Emiratisation policies and programs, the Ministry emphasized, is to cultivate a productive and sustainable Emirati workforce in the private sector. This aims to empower UAE citizens to play an active role in the nation's development and economy, especially in key sectors. Achieving this involves taking on authentic jobs and engaging in work that enhances experience and productivity.

Additionally, the Ministry underscored that safeguarding the integrity of the Emiratisation process is a collective responsibility. It urged establishments to remain true to the intent and goals of these policies and encouraged Emirati citizens to reject involvement in any 'Fake Emiratisation' schemes where they are listed as employees without performing any real work.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation urges all UAE citizens and community members to report any instances of 'Fake Emiratisation' they encounter. The Ministry advises against being misled by non-compliant companies and encourages individuals to report violations by contacting them at 600590000, or through their smart application or website.

The Ministry emphasizes its ongoing efforts to enhance monitoring and verification tools. By utilizing digital systems and data analytics, it aims to identify unlawful practices, thereby strengthening the integrity of the Emiratisation initiative and safeguarding the rights of UAE citizens and compliant businesses.

Genuine Emiratisation entails an actual job, genuine responsibilities, and a real career advancement, rather than merely being a statistic, as highlighted by MoHRE.

Fake Emiratisation occurs when an Emirati citizen is registered with a company, a work permit is issued, and an employment contract is signed without any genuine employment relationship or real job responsibilities. These practices often seek to evade Emiratisation goals or illicitly gain from government support systems and incentives meant to promote the employment and training of UAE citizens.