The NAFIS programme aims to empower Emirati talent, enhance their competitiveness, and position them as a key driver of the national economy
The Nafis Programme has been extended until 2040, reinforcing the UAE’s long-term commitment to advancing sustainable Emiratisation and strengthening the participation of nationals in the private sector.
The announcement was made by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Chairman of the Presidential Court, in line with directives from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The programme aims to empower Emirati talent, enhance their competitiveness, and position them as a key driver of the national economy. By strengthening workforce participation in the private sector, Nafis continues to play a central role in shaping a more diversified and resilient labour market.
New Family-Centric Initiatives Introduced
As part of the programme’s expansion, aligned with the UAE’s “Year of the Family”, several new initiatives have been introduced to support Emirati households.
These include dedicated programmes to support:
- Children of Emirati mothers working in the private sector
- Wives of Emirati employees in the private sector
In addition, the children’s allowance scheme has been expanded, removing the cap on the number of children eligible for support, in a move aimed at enhancing family stability and social well-being.
Strong Adoption Across the Private Sector
Since its launch, Nafis has facilitated the employment of 176,000 Emiratis, with 152,000 currently working in the private sector.
Women represent a significant share of beneficiaries, accounting for 74% of total participants, highlighting the programme’s role in advancing female workforce participation.
Additionally, around 38,000 individuals have benefited from the children’s allowance scheme.
Growing Corporate Participation
The programme has also seen strong engagement from the private sector, with more than 32,000 companies employing Emirati talent under Nafis.
This growing participation reflects increasing alignment between government initiatives and private sector workforce strategies.
Source: MEP Middle East