UAE steps up fake Emiratisation crackdown as firms face fines of up to Dh500,000

Dubai: The United Arab Emirates is intensifying its efforts to combat fake Emiratisation practices, employing advanced technologies and data-driven approaches to detect and penalize companies that violate national employment targets. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has detected 377 instances of fake Emiratisation across 266 private-sector companies during the first half of 2026, employing artificial intelligence, data analytics and digital monitoring tools.

Those found guilty of manipulating the system or engaging in fake Emiratisation face severe consequences, with fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh500,000 per worker, depending on the severity of the violation. In addition to financial penalties, MoHRE may suspend Nafis support and recover previously paid benefits in applicable cases.

Fake Emiratisation refers to the registration of an Emirati with a company and issuance of a work permit without a genuine employment relationship or actual job responsibilities. The ministry's broader enforcement drive has led to a 15 per cent decrease in the number of private-sector establishments breaching labour market legislation compared to the same period last year.

Under Cabinet Decision No. 43 of 2025, companies that manipulate their workforce numbers or classifications to evade Emiratisation targets face increasing fines, with a third violation resulting in a Dh500,000 fine. MoHRE defines fake Emiratisation as registering an Emirati with an establishment without a genuine employment relationship or actual job responsibilities.

The ministry emphasizes that genuine Emiratisation requires a productive employment relationship involving real duties and responsibilities, a career path that develops the employee's skills and capabilities, and a commitment to complying with Emiratisation requirements. Companies are urged to meet their Emiratisation targets, which require a 10 per cent growth in skilled positions by the end of 2026.