The UAE has officially confirmed a new minimum wage for Emirati nationals working in the private sector, marking a key shift in employment policy for 2026.
From January 1, 2026, Emiratis employed by private companies must be paid a minimum salary of Dh6,000 per month. The update was announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) through its official channels, including its smart app.
This change replaces the previous Dh5,000 minimum and applies to all citizen work permits in the private sector. For many Emiratis, especially those early in their careers, the move brings a sense of reassurance at a time when living costs across cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to rise.
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What does the Dh6,000 minimum actually cover?
Under the new regulation, private sector employers are required to ensure that every Emirati employee earns at least Dh6,000. This rule applies whether a work permit is being issued for the first time, renewed, or modified.
From the start of 2026, MoHRE will not allow any citizen work permit to be processed if the salary listed is below the new threshold. Companies will also receive system notifications reminding them to adjust salaries where needed.
In practical terms, this means businesses can no longer delay updates or rely on older contracts. Salary compliance is now built directly into the work permit process.
Salary adjustment timeline explained
Although the rule came into force on January 1, 2026, employers have been given a clear adjustment window. Companies have until June 30, 2026, to update affected salaries.
From July 1, 2026, enforcement measures will begin for businesses that fail to comply. According to MoHRE, these measures may include:
- Emirati employees with salaries below Dh6,000 will not be counted towards Emiratisation targets
- Restrictions on issuing new citizen work permits
- Temporary blocks on permit-related services until salaries are corrected
For private firms operating in competitive sectors such as retail, hospitality, logistics, and professional services, missing Emiratisation targets can affect long-term hiring plans.
Also read: Dubai’s RTA Opens 116 Private Sector Tenders Until End of 2025 – Social Kandura
Understanding who the salary rule applies to
The new minimum wage applies only to Emirati nationals working in the private sector. It does not change salary regulations for expatriate workers.
Currently, the UAE labour law does not set a fixed minimum wage for non-Emiratis. However, wages are still required to be fair and sufficient to meet basic living needs, based on the nature of the role.
MoHRE has also clarified that this minimum wage rule will apply to citizen work permits for a period of two years, after which it may be reviewed or updated based on labour market conditions.
How does the change support Emiratis in the private workforce?
For Emiratis working in Dubai, the salary increase reflects a growing push to make private sector roles more attractive and sustainable. For years, Emiratis have viewed government jobs as the safer option, but the private sector now offers wider career exposure, quicker growth, and more varied industries.
With rent, transport, and daily expenses steadily rising, especially in urban areas, the Dh6,000 benchmark offers added financial breathing room. It also signals stronger protection for Emiratis choosing private employment over traditional public sector roles.
Many HR professionals see this as a confidence-building move that could encourage more young Emiratis to explore careers in tech, media, finance, retail, and tourism.
Steps companies should take before the deadline
For companies, the message is straightforward. Review Emirati salary structures early and make adjustments well before the June deadline. Waiting until the last minute could result in operational delays, especially for firms dependent on timely work permit processing.
Businesses that already meet the new salary requirement are unlikely to see disruption. For others, the update may require internal budgeting reviews or revised employment contracts.
In the long run, the policy aims to create a more balanced and resilient labour market, where local talent plays a central role in private sector growth.
How does this fit into the UAE’s workforce plans?
The UAE minimum wage increase for Emiratis is part of a broader shift in how work is structured across the country. From flexible work models to Emiratisation targets and updated labour laws, 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year for the workforce.
For Emiratis, the change offers greater clarity and security. For employers, it reinforces the importance of compliance and long-term planning.
As Dubai continues to grow as a global business hub, policies like this underline the UAE’s focus on supporting its citizens while maintaining a competitive private sector economy.
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