The “نافس” program, aimed at enhancing the presence of Emirati professionals in the private sector, is set to achieve an astounding 170% of its targets soon. This remarkable growth reflects robust government initiatives and a strong response from both public and private sectors to empower national talents. Recent statements from key officials highlight not only the program’s achievements but also the shifting perceptions around careers within the private domain.
Remarkable Growth in Employment
غنام المزروعي, the Secretary-General of the UAE’s Council for Competitiveness in Emirati Talent, recently emphasized the program’s success at the annual “نافس” forum, stating that the number of Emiratis working in the private and banking sectors has surged from 29,000 to over 157,000 within four years, marking a staggering growth of 437%. This significant leap indicates a vital transformation in the employment landscape for Emiratis in the private sector.
Changing Perceptions Among Youth
مزروعي pointed out a key strategic indicator showing the appeal of the private sector to graduates has skyrocketed from 15% to 58%. This statistic reveals a transformative trend among Emirati youth, who are increasingly viewing the private sector as a viable primary career path. The program has already achieved 92% of its objectives ahead of the anticipated 2026 deadline, showcasing accelerated progress that underscores strong leadership support for this critical initiative.
Focus on Qualitative Job Opportunities
Looking ahead, المزروعي indicated that by 2026, there would be a deeper shift towards specialized job roles in the private sector, with a focus on career development and the sustainable presence of Emiratis in advanced leadership positions. He affirmed that the upcoming phase will prioritize retention practices within companies and the enhancement of workplace environments to ensure the stability and continued growth of national talents.
Community Awareness and Engagement
A key component of the council’s current strategy involves changing societal perceptions toward private sector employment, particularly among younger generations. To achieve this, they have initiated awareness programs in schools targeting students in the sixth to eighth grades. These programs have received substantial cooperation from both students and parents, with positive outcomes evident in families’ perceptions of their children’s future career prospects in the private sector.
During the forum, workshops were held with the Youth Council of “نافس” to engage directly with Emiratis working in the private sector, addressing existing challenges and proposing practical solutions. Several initiatives suggested by the youth are currently being evaluated for future implementation.
The second iteration of the “نافس” forum serves as a crucial link between government entities, the private sector, and semi-government organizations, focusing on showcasing achievements and setting the agenda for future activities. As part of this commitment, the fourth cycle of the “ناس” Awards for 2025-2026 was announced, aimed at recognizing exemplary models from institutions and national talents, further promoting best practices in developing and retaining the Emirati workforce within the private sector, thereby bolstering economic growth and enhancing human capital in the UAE.