Successful Emiratisation needs cooperation

Emiratisation of the UAE workforce — specifically in private companies — is essential to ensure that citizens benefit from the nation’s economic development.

Sustainable jobs are the practical mechanism through which citizens have the opportunity to earn and accumulate wealth, improve their living standards and create opportunities for their children.

In this ‘Year of Emiratisation’, companies are making a concerted effort to employ UAE nationals, as highlighted at the 13th annual Careers UAE exhibition. However, to ensure the success of Emiratisation, companies, government and job-seekers must continue to work together. Companies must identify employment and progression opportunities for Emiratis and provide them with the necessary support and training in the workplace to help them succeed. Job seekers must be realistic in their expectations of salaries, promotions and working conditions. The reality is that private companies often operate in a business environment that limits their ability to offer competitive conditions of employment. Both employers and prospective employees should find ways to achieve job satisfaction as well as maximum remuneration.

The government needs to look at ways of bringing conditions of employment in public services in line with those of the private sector. As long as the government continues to offer significantly better conditions than the private sector entities, companies will not be able to effectively compete for the talents of UAE nationals.

However, by working together, government and companies will be able to provide secure employment and sustainable career paths in the private sector to Emiratis.