Dubai, January 1, 2026 – The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced an increase in the minimum wage for Emirati employees in the private sector to AED 6,000 per month, effective January 1, 2026.
According to the Ministry, the revised minimum salary applies to new Emirati work permits as well as permits that are renewed or amended from the effective date. Employers who hired Emirati staff before January 1, 2026, have been granted a grace period until June 30, 2026, to adjust salaries in line with the new wage requirement.
In an official statement, MoHRE clarified that the decision is part of the government’s broader Emiratisation strategy, aimed at enhancing the participation of UAE nationals in the private sector.
Khalil Ibrahim Al Khouri, Under-Secretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at MoHRE, said the salary increase follows a phased wage framework designed to gradually align private-sector compensation with market standards. He explained that the minimum wage for Emiratis initially started at AED 4,000, was later raised to AED 5,000, and has now reached AED 6,000 per month in 2026.
“This gradual increase allows private sector establishments adequate time to adapt while ensuring fair wages that reflect job roles and market conditions,” Al Khouri said.
He urged employers to update employment contracts of Emirati workers before the June 30, 2026 deadline, emphasizing that all Emiratis working in the private sector must receive at least AED 6,000 per month by that date.
The Ministry also warned that penalties will take effect from July 1, 2026, for non-compliant companies. These measures include excluding underpaid Emirati employees from Emiratisation targets and suspending new work permits for establishments until wage compliance is achieved.
Al Khouri praised private sector employers for their continued commitment to Emiratisation goals, highlighting the role of the Nafis programme and its digital platform in connecting businesses with qualified Emirati talent, along with incentives and support provided by the Ministry.
The wage increase marks a significant step in strengthening national workforce participation, improving job stability, and enhancing income security for Emiratis in the private sector.