The UAE is undergoing a major transformation in its labor market, with a strong focus on empowering Emirati citizens and increasing their participation in the private sector. One of the most significant initiatives supporting this goal is NAFIS. Launched by the UAE government, NAFIS is more than just an employment program—it is a nationwide strategy designed to align education, employment, and economic growth.
Whether you are an employer, entrepreneur, or Emirati job seeker, understanding NAFIS is essential. This guide explains what NAFIS is, how it works, who benefits from it, and how businesses can comply while maximizing incentives.
What Is NAFIS?
NAFIS is a federal employment and talent development program launched under the UAE’s Projects of the 50 initiative. Its primary goal is to increase the number of Emirati citizens working in the private sector by offering financial incentives, training support, and long-term career development opportunities.
The program bridges the gap between employers and Emirati talent. It supports businesses in hiring UAE nationals while ensuring Emiratis receive competitive salaries, professional training, and career stability within the private sector.
What Does NAFIS Stand For?
NAFIS translates to “Competitiveness” in Arabic. The name reflects the program’s purpose: enhancing the competitiveness of the UAE workforce by integrating national talent into the private sector.
Rather than forcing compliance alone, NAFIS focuses on collaboration between government, employers, and employees. This balanced approach makes it one of the most impactful workforce nationalization initiatives in the region.
Why Was NAFIS Introduced?
Historically, the UAE private sector relied heavily on expatriate labor, while Emiratis largely worked in government roles. This created a skills imbalance and limited private-sector exposure for UAE nationals.
NAFIS was introduced to:
- Encourage Emirati participation in private companies
- Reduce dependency on public-sector employment
- Align national talent with future economic sectors
- Support long-term workforce sustainability
The initiative ensures Emiratis play an active role in shaping the UAE’s economic future.
Who Oversees the NAFIS Program?
NAFIS is managed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in collaboration with other federal authorities. It operates through a centralized digital platform that connects job seekers, employers, training providers, and financial support systems.
This centralized approach improves transparency, simplifies compliance, and ensures consistent monitoring of Emiratisation targets.
Key Objectives of NAFIS
NAFIS is built around clear and measurable goals.
Core Objectives
- Increase Emirati employment in the private sector
- Improve salary competitiveness for UAE nationals
- Provide continuous professional development
- Support businesses with financial incentives
- Build long-term career pathways for Emiratis
These objectives ensure that employment is not just short-term placement, but sustainable career growth.
Who Can Benefit from NAFIS?
NAFIS is designed to benefit multiple stakeholders across the UAE economy.
Primary Beneficiaries
- Emirati job seekers
- Private-sector employers
- Startups and SMEs
- Large corporations
- Training and education providers
By supporting both supply and demand, NAFIS creates a balanced and inclusive employment ecosystem.
NAFIS for Emirati Job Seekers
For Emiratis, NAFIS provides access to real private-sector opportunities supported by financial and professional incentives.
Benefits for Job Seekers
- Salary support from the government
- Job placement assistance
- Career counseling
- Professional training programs
- Pension contributions
These benefits make private-sector roles more attractive and competitive with government employment.
NAFIS for Private-Sector Employers
For businesses, NAFIS reduces the financial and operational burden of hiring Emirati nationals.
Employer Advantages
- Wage subsidies
- Training cost support
- Reduced onboarding risk
- Access to skilled Emirati talent
- Compliance with Emiratisation requirements
NAFIS transforms Emiratisation from a compliance obligation into a strategic business advantage.
NAFIS Salary Support Scheme Explained
One of the most attractive components of NAFIS is its salary support program.
How Salary Support Works
The UAE government provides monthly financial support to Emirati employees working in the private sector. This amount is paid directly to the employee, supplementing their salary.
Key Points
- Available for up to five years
- Amount depends on salary level
- Encourages long-term retention
- Reduces employer cost pressure
This structure ensures fairness while maintaining market competitiveness.
NAFIS Pension Contribution Support
NAFIS also supports employers with pension contributions for Emirati employees.
Why This Matters
Pension costs can discourage private companies from hiring nationals. NAFIS offsets this burden, making Emirati hires financially viable for businesses of all sizes.
This support strengthens job security and long-term employment stability for Emiratis.
NAFIS Training and Upskilling Programs
NAFIS emphasizes skill development, not just job placement.
Available Training Support
- On-the-job training programs
- Professional certification funding
- Digital skills development
- Leadership and management training
These programs ensure Emiratis remain competitive in fast-evolving industries.
NAFIS Internship and Apprenticeship Programs
For fresh graduates and young professionals, NAFIS offers structured internships and apprenticeships.
Program Highlights
- Paid placements
- Industry-relevant experience
- Employer mentorship
- Pathway to permanent roles
This early exposure helps Emiratis build confidence and practical skills.
Industries Covered Under NAFIS
NAFIS applies across most private-sector industries.
Key Sectors
- Banking and finance
- Technology and IT
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Retail and hospitality
- Logistics and aviation
The program supports diversification across both traditional and emerging sectors.
NAFIS and Emiratisation Targets
NAFIS plays a central role in achieving UAE Emiratisation targets.
Current Focus
Private companies with 50 or more employees must meet specific Emiratisation percentages. NAFIS provides the tools and incentives needed to meet these requirements without operational disruption.
Non-compliance can result in fines, making proactive participation essential.
How Employers Register for NAFIS
Registration is completed through the official NAFIS digital platform.
Registration Steps
- Create a company profile
- Verify trade license and MOHRE records
- Post job vacancies
- Hire eligible Emirati candidates
- Apply for incentives
Proper setup ensures smooth access to benefits and compliance.
How Emirati Job Seekers Register for NAFIS
Job seekers can register independently.
Steps for Individuals
- Create a NAFIS account
- Upload CV and qualifications
- Apply for jobs
- Enroll in training programs
- Track benefits and payments
The platform is user-friendly and continuously updated.
Common Challenges with NAFIS Compliance
Despite its benefits, some businesses face challenges.
Typical Issues
- Misunderstanding eligibility criteria
- Incorrect employee classification
- Delayed documentation
- Missed reporting deadlines
These issues can lead to incentive delays or penalties if not handled correctly.
How SMEs Can Benefit from NAFIS
Small and medium-sized enterprises often worry about compliance costs. NAFIS makes Emiratisation accessible even for SMEs.
Why NAFIS Works for SMEs
- Financial risk reduction
- Talent access without high overhead
- Government-backed workforce support
With the right guidance, SMEs can turn compliance into growth.
NAFIS and Business Growth in the UAE
By integrating Emirati talent, businesses gain local market insight, cultural understanding, and stronger government relationships.
Over time, this leads to:
- Enhanced brand reputation
- Better regulatory alignment
- Long-term workforce stability
NAFIS supports not just hiring, but sustainable growth.
Role of Business Consultants in NAFIS Compliance
Many companies choose professional consultants to manage NAFIS processes.
Consultants Help With
- Employer registration
- Workforce planning
- Emiratisation strategy
- Incentive optimization
- Ongoing compliance
Expert support reduces risk and saves time.
Future of NAFIS in the UAE
NAFIS is a long-term national strategy, not a temporary program.
Future developments may include:
- Expanded incentive schemes
- Sector-specific targets
- Advanced training partnerships
- Digital talent analytics
Businesses that adapt early will benefit the most.
Consultation with BizInvestFirm
Navigating NAFIS requirements can be complex, especially when combined with company formation, licensing, and Emiratisation targets. BizInvestFirm provides end-to-end support to help businesses fully comply with NAFIS while maximizing available incentives.
How BizInvestFirm Helps
- NAFIS registration and setup
- Emiratisation compliance planning
- Hiring strategy for Emirati talent
- Incentive and subsidy optimization
- Ongoing advisory and reporting
With BizInvestFirm, businesses can turn regulatory obligations into strategic opportunities.
Conclusion
NAFIS is reshaping the UAE’s private-sector workforce by empowering Emirati talent and supporting businesses through incentives and training. It represents a shift from compliance-driven hiring to value-driven workforce development.
For employers, understanding and implementing NAFIS correctly is no longer optional—it is a strategic necessity. With the right planning and professional guidance, NAFIS becomes a powerful tool for growth, compliance, and long-term success in the UAE.
FAQs About NAFIS
Is NAFIS mandatory?
Participation is essential for companies subject to Emiratisation targets.
Does NAFIS apply to free zones?
Currently, it mainly applies to mainland companies registered with MOHRE.
Can startups use NAFIS?
Yes, eligible startups can benefit from NAFIS incentives.
Are incentives permanent?
Most incentives are time-bound and performance-based.