UAE takes legal action against 266 firms over fake Emiratization cases

The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) recorded 377 fake Emiratization cases across 266 private companies in the first half of 2026, Khaleej Times reported. The ministry said the violations were isolated and do not reflect a wider trend in the UAE labor market. It has taken legal action against the firms involved.

What is fake Emiratization?

Fake Emiratization happens when a company hires a UAE national on paper to meet its Emiratization quota, without giving that person real work. An employment contract may be signed, but the employee receives no actual duties or responsibilities. This inflates a firm's reported Emiratization numbers without creating a genuine job.

How can violations be reported?

MoHRE has urged private companies and Emirati citizens to comply with Emiratization policies. It asked the public to report suspected violations through its hotline, smart app or official website. Reporting channels allow the ministry to identify and act on non-compliant firms.

What harm does fake Emiratization cause?

MoHRE said fake Emiratization harms the labor market in several ways. It distorts national Emiratization data and wastes resources meant to support genuine employment. The practice also blocks real job opportunities for Emirati jobseekers.

It further disadvantages companies that genuinely invest in hiring and training Emirati talent. These firms compete against others that only appear compliant on paper. MoHRE said this undermines the credibility of the wider Emiratization program.

What is the goal of Emiratization policy?

The ministry said Emiratization policies aim to build a productive and sustainable Emirati workforce in the private sector. The program is designed to help citizens contribute actively to the UAE's economic growth. This focus is considered especially important in priority sectors identified by the government.

How does this compare with last year?1

In August, MoHRE reported 405 fake Emiratization cases for the first half of 2025. Legal action was taken against the companies involved at that time. The number of cases fell to 377 in the first half of 2026.

The UAE maintains a zero tolerance policy on fake Emiratization. Last year, one company was fined Dh10 million after appointing 113 citizens to fictitious roles to bypass its Emiratization targets. That case remains one of the largest penalties issued under the policy.

How does MoHRE detect these cases?

MoHRE said field inspections and its digital monitoring system play a key role in identifying violations. The ministry reaffirmed that it will take firm action against companies that fail to comply with Emiratization rules. It said enforcement efforts will continue as part of its ongoing crackdown.