MoHRE detects 405 cases of fake Emiratisation in first half of 2025

Dubai: More than 400 cases of 'fake Emiratisation' have already been flagged in the private sector this year, underscoring the UAE’s ongoing battle with companies trying to dodge hiring rules.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed that 405 violations were detected in the first six months of 2025, with legal steps now underway against those involved. The ministry did not release company names but said action would range from fines to further sanctions depending on the severity of each case.

Fake Emiratisation typically refers to situations where firms either misclassify staff to inflate their national hiring numbers or put Emiratis on payroll without meaningful work. The practice undercuts the government’s drive to boost Emirati participation in the private workforce, a policy that has been steadily ramped up with stricter quotas and penalties.

Officials stressed that the ministry “remains firmly committed” to enforcement. In a public appeal, they urged Emiratis and residents alike to report suspicious cases through the ministry hotline 600590000, its smart app, or the official website.