The debate around Emiratisation in the private sector has been hanging fire for a long time. To reduce the structural division in the labour market, the UAE government is keen to boost the inclusion of Emiratis in the job market, particularly in the private sector. Besides increasing their contribution to the economy, more Emiratis in the country’s private sector will reduce unnecessary government expenditure, create a loyal workforce and reduce the flow of cash out of the country.
Over the years, the government has taken various steps to increase the pace of Emiratisation in various management, administrative and technical positions. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation offers benefits to private establishments, that include reduced charges on labour permits and waiver of bank deposits. Firms have also been given other sops and incentives for achieving the set targets.
While the intent is there, the outcome has not always been commensurate. More private sector firms need to hire locals in the UAE. In order to give a further fillip to the process, the ministry has now proposed a new system for hiring Emiratis in the private sector, which will further improve quality job creation and cultivate a secure work atmosphere. A recent decision signed by Nasser Bin Thani Al Hameli, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, on creating jobs for citizens in the private sector includes a policy of appraising Emiratis’ performance on the job and firing only on valid reasons, among other things. A blend of active participation of private firms and friendly government policies will go a long way to ensure the UAE meets its 2021 Emiratisation target.
