UAE Extends Nafis Programme to 2040 for Growth Boost

In line with the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has announced a major extension of its flagship Nafis programme until 2040. The decision was confirmed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The move reflects the UAE leadership’s long-term vision to strengthen Emiratization, enhance workforce stability, and empower Emirati citizens to play a central role in the country’s economic and social development.

Key Policy Updates Announced

The decision was finalized during a board meeting of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council held at Qasr Al Watan on April 6, 2026.

A series of major updates to the Nafis programme were approved, including:

• Expansion of the Children’s Allowance, removing limits on the number of eligible children

• New salary support schemes for:

  • Children of Emirati mothers working in the private sector

  • Wives of Emirati citizens employed in the private sector

These measures align with the UAE’s Year of Family 2026, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to strengthening family stability and social cohesion.

Focus on Talent Development

On the sidelines of the meeting, Sheikh Mansour also presided over the graduation ceremony of the second cohort of the Nafis Leadership Programme.

A total of 25 Emirati participants completed advanced training through workshops and direct engagement with industry leaders. The programme aims to foster innovation, leadership skills, and readiness for modern workplace challenges.

Leadership Vision

Sheikh Mansour emphasized that extending Nafis to 2040 will:

• Strengthen national workforce competitiveness

• Deepen public-private sector collaboration

• Create a stable and dynamic work environment

He highlighted that investing in people remains the UAE’s top priority, describing human capital as the nation’s greatest asset.

Strong Results Since Launch

Since its launch in September 2021, the Nafis programme has achieved significant milestones:

• Over 176,000 Emiratis employed

• Around 152,000 active beneficiaries across 32,000 companies

• Target exceeded ahead of schedule

Women and Family Empowerment

• Emirati women represent 74% of total beneficiaries

• Over 38,000 children supported through allowances

These figures underline the programme’s strong impact on both workforce participation and family welfare.

Training and Skill Development

The programme has also delivered extensive training opportunities:

• 3,500+ participants in the National Healthcare Programme

• 7,700+ beneficiaries in Kafa’at, Khebra, and employment training initiatives

These efforts aim to equip Emirati talent with skills aligned to future labor market demands.

The Nafis programme was launched in 2021 with a budget of AED 24 billion under the UAE’s “Projects of the 50” initiative. Its goal was to place 170,000 Emiratis in private-sector jobs—a target already surpassed.