The United Arab Emirates (UAE), has witnessed a remarkable growth journey since its formation in 1971, driven by the ambitious vision of its wise leadership and resolve of its people. This ongoing progress has positioned the nation , consistently setting new benchmarks of advancement and excellence across diverse sectors. Amidst global economic shifts and evolving labour market dynamics, Emiratisation has emerged as a strategic pillar for achieving sustainable development and reinforcing the UAE's global competitiveness.

The UAE's broader strategic vision primarily focuses on encouraging and supporting the participation of national talents in key sectors while maintaining a balance between leveraging international expertise and investing in Emirati professionals. This holistic approach promotes innovation, enhances the work environment, and aligns with the evolving needs of the digital age.

This commitment is further exemplified by the wise directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and the Ruler of Dubai, who stated: "Human beings, their ideas, innovations, dreams, and connections, are the capital of the future. Because where great minds go today, great things will follow tomorrow."

Recent reports by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), demonstrate that the number of Emiratis in the private sector have increased by over 40 per cent* as compared to 2024. This exceptional growth is a testament to the wise leadership's constant efforts in creating a competitive labour market that enables national talents to easily enter the workforce by equipping them with the requisite tools to excel, innovate, lead, and thrive. These concerted efforts have positively impacted both economic growth and labour market stability.

In addition, emerging sectors including logistics, courier, express and parcel services (CEP), have witnessed growing interest from Emirati professionals. This momentum, led by public-private initiatives, offer promising opportunities for UAE nationals to develop their skills and contribute to the digital and global economy.

 Public-private partnerships: A key pillar of sustainable growth

Strategic alliances between government and private entities remains central to achieving the UAE's Emiratisation goals. A recent example is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Emirati Human Resources Development Council (EHRDC) in Dubai and the Regulation and Licensing Sector, operating under the Postal Sector Regulatory Committee (PSRC). The agreement targets over 160 private companies in the CEP sector providing training programmes and employment initiatives to encourage Emirati participation in this vital industry.

Moreover, the PSRC regularly organises workshops to ensure that private sector companies have access to the latest regulatory updates and best practices. One such key initiative was the workshop titled 'Emiratisation in the CEP Sector', held in collaboration with MoHRE, the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (NAFIS) and the EHRDC. The workshop was designed to raise awareness on Emiratisation laws for the private sector,

The UAE's Emiratisation strategy extends beyond economic planning, rather, it represents a comprehensive national strategy aimed at empowering Emiratis and secure sustainable, inclusive growth. Through strong collaboration between public and private sectors, continued investment in training and development, the UAE is advancing towards its goal of becoming a global hub for innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth.

*Issue 38 - "Labour Market" Magazine - Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation

Written by: Mohamed Khalid Bin Sulaiman, Chief Regulatory and Licensing Officer at the Regulatory and Licensing Sector