Page 210 - RUYA CAREERS PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2025 (English)

9/19/25, 10:55 AM How Emiratisation Is Powering UAE's Transition To A Knowledge Economy
driven by national platforms like NAFIS is beginning to change that picture. More than 131,000 Emiratis are now employed
in the private sector, marking a significant step forward in both representation and opportunity.

Despite these developments, significant gaps still remain that need to be bridged. For example, in the insurance sector,
Emiratis currently represent just 22 per cent of the workforce, which is 2,159 out of 9,773 employees, as of June, 2025. To
accelerate progress and promote meaningful change, the UAE has set ambitious new goals. By 2030, Emiratis are
expected to occupy 50-60 per cent of roles in this sector, including senior positions and key leadership roles. These targets
reflect a broader ambition; not just to increase numbers, but to create lasting and high-impact participation across
industries.

Emiratisation as a strategic advantage

Currently, forward-looking companies realise that Emiratisation is not just a regulatory checkbox but also a strategic asset.
By employing Emirati talent across all levels, from fresh graduates to C-suite executives, businesses can deepen cultural
alignment, improve stakeholder trust and unlock new opportunities.

NAFIS plays a key role in this context, offering wage subsidies, training and recruitment support. These are not just
incentives but instruments of change, helping both employers and Emirati professionals thrive in a competitive, future-
focused economy.

Empowering future-ready talent

The most transformative impact of Emiratisation lies in its focus on skills development. In a world that demands digital
fluency, adaptability and continuous learning, Emiratisation enables Emiratis to step forward not just as participants, but as
leaders.

Initiatives that encourage upskilling, mentorship and professional development are preparing the national workforce to meet

the needs of today as well as define the industries of tomorrow.

The convergence of innovation and Emiratisation

The UAE's fast-paced digital transformation, driven by the rise of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), is
opening up exciting new opportunities for Emirati professionals. As industries evolve, the need to align cultural grounding
with innovation has never been greater.

Emiratisation plays a key role in this transformation. By investing in the development of national talent with expertise in
emerging technologies, the UAE is preparing Emiratis not just to adapt, but to lead innovation and compete globally.

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