UAE announces extension of Nafis programme until 2040

The UAE's Nafis programme, which aims to empower national talent in the private sector, has been extended until 2040.

Making the announcement, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, said it follows the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

At the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) Board of Directors meeting at Qasr Al Watan, a host of new incentives were approved in line with the Year of the Family. 

• Salary support scheme for children of Emirati mothers employed in the private sector
• Salary support scheme for wives of citizens working in the private sector 
• Children's allowance has been expanded with no cap on the number of eligible children

"This extension speaks to the strategic importance of Nafis as a national instrument for advancing Emiratization, deepening collaboration between the public and private sectors, and providing a dynamic and stable work environment for our citizens," highlighted Sheikh Mansour.

"It is grounded in a firm belief that people are the nation's greatest asset, and in our unwavering commitment to developing national talent, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, and investing in people as a lasting source of strength for the UAE's standing among the world's leading nations."

Since its launch in September 2021, Nafis has contributed to the employment of more than 176,000 nationals in the private sector, of whom 152,000 are active Nafis beneficiaries working across 32,000 establishments as of the end of March.

Emirati women have made a remarkable presence in the private sector, accounting for 74 per cent of total programme beneficiaries, while more than 38,000 children have been supported through the Child Allowance Scheme.

Approximately 3,500 Emirati nationals have benefited from the National Healthcare Programme, while around 7,700 have completed the Kafa'at, Khebra, and training for employment programmes, all part of Nafis' sustained drive to strengthen the readiness of national talent.