Emirati Women's Private Sector Employment Reaches 107,000, Marking Significant Growth

Record Growth in Emirati Women's Private Sector Participation

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced a substantial increase in the number of Emirati women employed in the private sector, reaching 107,000 as of June 2025. This figure represents a remarkable 530% growth since the launch of the Nafis program in September 2021. Emirati women now constitute 70% of the total Emirati workforce in the private sector, highlighting their growing contribution to the national economy.

Nafis Program and Strategic Initiatives Drive Employment Surge

The significant rise in Emirati women's private sector employment is largely attributed to the success of the Nafis program, a key government initiative designed to enhance the competitiveness of Emirati human resources and empower them in the private sector. Launched in 2021, Nafis aimed to place 75,000 Emiratis in private sector roles by 2026, a target that has been considerably surpassed, with 131,000 Emiratis employed by the end of 2024. The program provides incentives and fosters a stimulating work environment, contributing to job stability and satisfaction.

Beyond Nafis, the UAE's commitment to gender balance and women's empowerment is evident through various legislative and strategic frameworks. The country adopted the Gender Balance Strategy 2022-2026, which aims to position the UAE as a global model for gender balance. Legislation prohibits gender discrimination in the workplace and mandates equal pay for similar jobs, ensuring protection of women's rights and equal opportunities. The World Bank has also commended the UAE for its labor law reforms, which enhance work-life balance and expand opportunities for women.

High-Skilled Roles and Youth Engagement

Emirati women are not only increasing their presence but are also excelling in high-skilled positions. Data from MoHRE indicates that 97% of Emirati women in the private sector hold skilled roles, including professional, technical, and specialized positions. Furthermore, women account for 54% of Emiratis in leadership positions within the private sector. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with 71% of Emirati women working in the private sector being under the age of 35.

Their contributions span diverse and critical sectors:

• Education: 98% of Emiratis employed in this sector are women.
• Technology-related roles: 61% of Emiratis in these positions are women.
• Healthcare professions: Women hold a significant share of roles.

The female workforce experienced a 12% growth this year, building on a 10% growth last year, underscoring the consistent rise in women's participation in the UAE labor market.

Shifting Perceptions and Future Outlook

Surveys reveal a positive shift in perceptions regarding private sector employment among Emirati women. A 2024 PWC survey, conducted with MoHRE, found that 62% of Emirati women in the private sector believe they have equal opportunities for career growth. Additionally, 67% of Emirati job seekers perceive it as easier to find a job in the private sector compared to the public sector. Preferences for flexible working hours are also high, with 75% of Emiratis favoring such arrangements, and financial compensation being the top factor for 69% of job seekers.

The Emiratisation policy, a strategic initiative to increase Emirati employment and reduce reliance on foreign labor, continues to set ambitious targets. Companies with 50 or more employees are required to increase their Emirati staff by 2% annually, aiming for a 10% representation by 2026. Smaller firms with 20-49 employees in specific economic sectors are mandated to hire at least one Emirati by 2024 and another by 2025. Non-compliance with these targets results in financial penalties, reinforcing the government's commitment to these goals.

This sustained growth and active participation of Emirati women are pivotal to the UAE's economic diversification and its vision for a balanced and dynamic workforce.