In a significant move to strengthen Emirati employment in the private sector, the United Arab Emirates announced a major expansion of its flagship Nafis programme, extending benefits until 2040. The announcement was made under the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reinforcing the country’s long-term vision to empower Emirati talent and enhance job security.The updated scheme introduces a wide range of financial and social support measures; the most notable change is the removal of any cap on child allowance. This marks a major shift in how family support is structured under Nafis, especially for larger Emirati households.Officials said the move reflects the leadership’s commitment to improving quality of life while encouraging more nationals to join and remain in the private sector workforce.
UAE Nafis new allowance rules explained
One of the most significant changes under the revised At the same time, the programme continues to provide monthly salary top-ups that can reach up to Dh7,000 depending on qualifications and income levels, alongside pension contributions and unemployment support.Officials said these reforms are designed to better reflect real household needs while making private sector careers more financially viable for Emiratis. The removal of limits on child support, combined with expanded family-focused incentives, is expected to particularly benefit larger families and improve long-term financial security, while encouraging more nationals to enter and remain in private sector roles.
Empowering Emirati women
The government is making it easier for every household member to contribute to the nation’s economy. The new updates introduce targeted salary support programs specifically for the children of Emirati mothers who work in the private sector.Additionally, a new support scheme has been launched for the wives of Emirati citizens employed in the private sector. By broadening the safety net, the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) aims to create a “dynamic and stable work environment” that protects family income while encouraging more nationals to switch from public office to private enterprise.
How does the Nafis programme work?
The expansion of Nafis plays a central role in the UAE’s broader Emiratisation strategy, which seeks to increase the participation of nationals in private sector employment. At a high-level meeting of the Emirates Talent Competitiveness Council held at Qasr Al Watan, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the remarkable progress of the Nafis programme, revealing that it has already exceeded its initial employment targets. Since its launch in 2021, more than 176,000 Emiratis have entered the private sector, marking a major shift in the country’s workforce landscape. Currently, around 152,000 citizens actively benefit from Nafis across nearly 32,000 companies, reflecting the programme’s wide reach and impact.The programme also supports the UAE’s economic diversification goals by encouraging nationals to contribute to key industries beyond the public sector.
What’s next?
Sheikh Mansour described Nafis as the “cornerstone” of national talent development. By extending the program to 2040, the UAE is sending a clear message to both citizens and the global market: Emiratization is not a temporary trend, but a permanent structural shift.Alongside financial aid, the program is doubling down on “Future Jobs.” The third cycle of the Nafis Award has introduced categories for AI, robotics, and renewable energy, ensuring that the next generation isn’t just employed, but is leading the industries of tomorrow. With more than 38,000 children already supported by the allowance scheme, the UAE is betting big on its people as its “greatest asset.”
