UAE Labour Market Sees Historic Growth As Emiratisation Rises
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The labour market in the UAE is experiencing record growth, driven by the country’s economic expansion, strong policy support, and an increased rate of Emiratization. The relevant authorities in Dubai are playing a crucial role in driving employment outcomes.
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) stated, “The size of the national workforce continues to increase, growing close to 8.9% of the total labour force by the end of the third quarter of 2025, and the number of operating establishments recording an increase of 6.6%.”
Historic Growth in the UAE Labour Market
The latest statistics, as per an official report, by the end of June, approximately 152,000 Emirati citizens are employed in the private sector. That is a 22% year-on-year increase, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). It is one of the highest recorded levels of national participation outside government roles, a milestone reportedly achieved by the successful implementation of Emiratisation policies and programs.
Dubai Authorities Driving Workforce Development
In Dubai, the authorities, such as the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) are aligned with national labour goals by promoting talent localisation within key economic sectors, including technology, tourism, trade, and logistics.
These entities are aligned with Dubai’s national strategies, for example, the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). Policy coordination between these authorities and MoHRE aims to enhance workforce participation and develop career pathways for Emiratis.
One key policy is the Nafis programme, which is a visionary federal initiative by the UAE government designed to enhance the employability and competitiveness of Emirati citizens. The programme’s overarching goal is to enable Emirati citizens to fill 75,000 private-sector jobs during the next five years.
Labour market changes have also addressed efforts to enhance work quality and protect workers. The use of technology in employment platforms, new contractual terms, and grievance procedures for workers has brought clarity and confidence to both employers and workers.
In addition, there has been significant participation in the working population by youths, with a large percentage being comprised of young workers who indicate keenness on the part of Generation Y to contribute to the working force.
UAE Labour Market Set for Sustainable Growth
Experts have noted that “the interplay of regulatory reform, investment, and Emiratisation will provide a way forward for development in the UAE’s labor market.”The aspect that “the UAE’s leaders are committed to and report progress towards its ambitious vision of inclusivity and diversification as its economy becomes more mature and less dependent on oil” will shape and mold the UAE’s labor market into one that supports the UAE’s economic vision.
