Since its inception, the “Nafes” program has marked a significant milestone in the UAE’s efforts to enhance the participation of Emiratis in the private sector. As of now, 134,000 citizens have joined the private sector since the launch of “Nafes.” This initiative, launched in September 2021 under the “Fifty Projects,” is pivotal in empowering Emirati talent and fostering a competitive workforce ready to meet the future demands of the economy.
A Celebratory Milestone for National Competitiveness
The Council for UAE Talent Competitiveness recently celebrated the fourth anniversary of the “Nafes” program, a national initiative recognized for its commitment to increasing Emirati contributions to the private sector. The program aims to instill a competitive spirit among UAE nationals, preparing them to meet future economic challenges while enhancing the national economic landscape.
Over the past four years, “Nafes” has demonstrated substantial success not only through statistics but also through its tangible impact on labor market dynamics. The program has fostered meaningful partnerships between government entities and the private sector, helping to solidify the role of national talent within various industries. Currently, over 152,000 Emiratis are employed in the private sector, with more than 134,000 citizens having joined since the launch of “Nafes,” showcasing its success in boosting national workforce participation.
The Vision Behind Nafes
According to Ghannam Bati Al Mazrouei, the Secretary-General of the UAE Talent Competitiveness Council, “Nafes” serves as a unique model for achieving the national vision focused on investing in human capital. He emphasized how, in alignment with the aspirations of the UAE leadership, the program has produced tangible outcomes. “Over four years, we have concentrated on developing citizens’ capabilities to build the nation’s future. We believe that empowering Emiratis is the most effective path to sustainable development,” he remarked, outlining the program’s broader objectives of fostering a competitive and innovative labor environment.
Al Mazrouei highlighted that this initiative is not merely an employment scheme but a comprehensive national system designed to create a sustainable work environment in the private sector. The efforts have led to unprecedented increases in the number of Emiratis within critical sectors, establishing them as key drivers of the national economy.
Comprehensive Support and Development Programs
The “Nafes” program continues to offer an integrated suite of financial, training, and developmental support services to ensure sustainable job opportunities for Emiratis. The financial support includes various initiatives like the “Salary Support Program,” which provides additional financial assistance to Emirati employees based on their qualifications and salary levels. Additional support efforts encompass the “Child Allowance Program,” “Temporary Support Program,” and retirement contributions aimed at reducing financial burdens on both citizens and employers.
Training and developmental initiatives have also gained traction, with various partnerships established with governmental and private institutions. Key programs such as “Kafa’at,” benefiting over 3,000 Emiratis, and the “Health Sector Development Program,” executed with 11 academic institutions, have trained numerous professionals in healthcare, with many graduating in essential medical fields.
The Naif Platform: A Gateway for Opportunities
The “Naif Platform” acts as a national gateway connecting job-seeking citizens with private sector employers, offering Emiratis a chance to explore suitable job openings and training opportunities provided by “Nafes.” The platform has successfully posted over 80,000 job vacancies, enhancing the chances of employment while promoting the UAE’s localization goals.
Moreover, the platform includes detailed information about various training and support programs under “Nafes,” alongside a comprehensive FAQ section and eligibility criteria, facilitating seamless communication between job seekers and employers.
Changing Perceptions of Private Sector Employment
The recent campaign aimed at shifting perceptions highlights the positive opportunities available within the private sector. By establishing the “Young Nafes Council,” the initiative seeks to empower youth with tools and insights into career possibilities, encouraging skill acquisition tailored to labor market needs. Over 600 success stories have been shared under “Nafes Your Way,” illustrating real-world examples of thriving Emiratis in the private sector.
As “Nafes” progresses, it remains committed to evolving the landscape of national employment and competitiveness, with initiatives designed to engage both individuals and institutions across the UAE. The ongoing efforts affirm a commitment to forging a resilient workforce ready to tackle future economic challenges and contribute to a prosperous national economy.