The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has confirmed that June 30, 2026, is the final deadline for private sector companies with 50 or more employees to meet Emiratisation targets for the first half of the year.

Under current rules, companies must achieve a 1% increase in Emiratisation for skilled jobs by the end of June, with another 1% increase required in the second half of 2026.

Starting July 1, firms that fail to meet the required targets will face financial penalties.

The ministry urged companies not to wait until the last minute and encouraged employers to use the Nafis platform to connect with Emirati jobseekers across multiple sectors and specialisations.

Officials said more than 50 days remain before the deadline, giving companies time to speed up hiring plans and improve compliance.

Fake Emiratisation practices

The ministry also warned against fake Emiratisation practices, saying advanced monitoring systems powered by artificial intelligence are being used to detect violations and attempts to manipulate targets.

Companies found violating Emiratisation regulations could face penalties, downgrading of their classification status and legal action.

Compliant companies may benefit from incentives under the Nafis programme, including discounts on ministry service fees and priority within government procurement systems.

The UAE has launched Make it in the Emirates 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen local manufacturing, improve supply chain resilience and expand the country’s advanced industrial sector.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the platform reflects the UAE’s vision for a “more resilient and sustainable national industrial model”, with continued investment in industry, artificial intelligence and technology.

In a message shared on X, Sheikh Mohamed said the UAE will continue to build strategic partnerships and strengthen local capabilities to boost global competitiveness.

The initiative comes as the UAE pushes to reduce dependence on global supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

Officials said more than 150 strategic commodities have already been studied, with alternative sourcing plans identified to maintain supply during global disruptions.

A key goal of Make it in the Emirates 2026 is to encourage more local production inside the UAE while attracting industrial investment and advanced manufacturing technologies.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also attended the event in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the growing role of UAE-made products and Emirati talent in shaping the country’s industrial future.

The event has brought together around 1,200 exhibitors across 12 key sectors, including aerospace, defence, energy, pharmaceuticals, mobility and sustainable materials.

As temperatures continue to soar across the UAE, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a citywide campaign to ensure Dubai’s air-conditioned bus shelters are fully prepared for the peak summer months, when extreme heat combined with humidity can make outdoor conditions especially uncomfortable for commuters.

The inspection drive covers 895 bus shelters across 621 locations throughout Dubai, focusing on cooling systems, maintenance and overall passenger comfort.

Summer readiness checks underway

According to the RTA, the campaign includes:

• Field inspections
• Preventive maintenance
• Technical system checks
• Immediate repairs where needed

Officials said the goal is to maintain reliable and comfortable public transport facilities during the peak summer months. The authority is committed to ensuring all public transport facilities remain fully operational and accessible for commuters.

Focus on passenger comfort

The shelters are designed to withstand Dubai’s climate, featuring:

• Air-conditioning systems
• Heat- and wind-resistant structures
• Seating and waiting areas
• Digital bus information screens

They also include accessibility features aligned with Dubai’s Universal Design Code, including dedicated spaces for People of Determination.

Public awareness campaign launched

Alongside the inspections, the RTA has also launched awareness campaigns encouraging residents to help maintain the shelters and keep facilities clean.

Passengers can report maintenance issues or suggestions via the RTA app’s Madinati service, with specialised teams assigned to address complaints and technical observations.

Officials said the shelters are designed with sustainability in mind and continue to play an important role in improving public transport infrastructure and commuter experience across the city.