UAE detects 377 fake Emiratisation cases at 266 private companies in first half of the year

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE has reported detecting 377 instances of fraudulent Emiratisation practices at 266 private sector companies during the first half of 2026. These cases were uncovered through physical inspections and the ministry's digital monitoring system. Fake Emiratisation involves hiring UAE citizens in a superficial manner, obtaining work permits and registering them without offering genuine employment.

The ministry is taking legal action against those responsible, with penalties including fines of Dh20,000 to Dh100,000 ($5,455 to $27,229) per case. In severe instances, the cases may be referred to prosecutors, and companies found non-compliant will also be required to contribute financially towards Emiratisation targets and will be ranked at the bottom of the ministry's compliance system.

Non-Emirati individuals caught engaging in fake Emiratisation will lose their Nafis benefits, and the ministry will recover any previously provided benefits. The UAE's Emiratisation policy aims to increase the participation of Emirati professionals in the private sector, with companies having 50 or more employees required to achieve a 10% Emiratisation rate in skilled positions by the end of 2026.

The ministry emphasizes that fake Emiratisation cases are limited and not a significant issue in the UAE labor market, and the focus is on maintaining compliance with the national policy.