The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC), through its Nafis programme, has issued a formal reminder that UAE citizens employed in the private sector are entitled to a minimum monthly wage of Dhs6,000. This mandate aligns with existing Cabinet decisions and resolutions established by the Central Bank of the UAE, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring fair financial compensation for national talent.
Employers are strictly required to adhere to this wage threshold. The Council emphasized that failing to meet this minimum standard constitutes a clear violation of national labor regulations. This enforcement effort is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the professional standing of Emirati workers and bolster the success of the country’s ongoing Emiratisation initiatives.
To protect these rights, Nafis has urged citizens to utilize official government channels if they believe their employers are not in compliance. Employees can file formal complaints with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which oversees labor relations and resolves employment disputes. Additionally, individuals may contact the Labour Consultation and Claims Centre to receive guidance on their legal rights and the appropriate procedures for seeking redress.
The Council highlighted the importance of these monitoring and complaint mechanisms in maintaining a fair work environment. Officials encouraged all Emirati professionals to remain vigilant regarding their contractual entitlements and to proactively seek clarification from government authorities when concerns arise. Employers are equally expected to ensure that all wages and benefits provided to their national staff meet the standards set by UAE authorities.
The Nafis programme remains a cornerstone of the UAE’s strategy to increase the competitiveness of its citizens within the private sector. By providing a suite of initiatives that support professional growth and career development, the programme assists both employees and companies in meeting national Emiratisation goals.
This commitment to the workforce was further solidified in April 2026, when His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the ETCC, announced the extension of the Nafis programme until 2040. This directive, issued under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aims to foster a stable, attractive work environment for citizens, cementing their role as essential partners in the nation’s long-term economic and social development.
Source: Gulf Today
