UAE Updates Healthcare Emiratisation Rules, Expands Specialist Opportunities for Nationals

UAE Revises Healthcare Emiratisation Requirements

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), together with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), has introduced updated Emiratisation requirements for private healthcare employers.

Under the revised policy, healthcare establishments with 50 or more employees must continue increasing Emiratisation in skilled positions by 2 per cent each year. However, half of that annual target must now be achieved through recruitment into specialised healthcare professions, while the remaining portion can be met through other skilled roles.

Annual Targets Remain Unchanged

The implementation timeline remains the same. Employers are expected to achieve half of their yearly Emiratisation target during the first six months of the year and complete the remaining half during the second half.

According to MoHRE, the change follows a review of workforce trends across the private healthcare industry and discussions with sector stakeholders.

Greater Focus on Emirati Healthcare Professionals

Officials said the measure is intended to increase the presence of Emirati professionals in healthcare occupations and support the long-term development of the sector.

Healthcare organisations that have already met first-half Emiratisation requirements for 2026 have been encouraged to focus on increasing Emirati representation in healthcare-specific positions during the remainder of the year.

Employers were also advised to use the Nafis platform when recruiting and to ensure hiring aligns with approved healthcare profession classifications.

Supporting National Workforce Development

MoHAP stated that the amendment supports broader national efforts to strengthen Emirati participation in healthcare and build a sustainable workforce capable of meeting future healthcare needs.

Officials noted that the initiative is expected to create additional career opportunities for UAE nationals while encouraging private healthcare providers to recruit, develop and retain local talent.

Compliance Checks Begin in 2027

MoHRE said compliance reviews under the updated framework will begin in early 2027. Authorities will assess whether covered healthcare establishments have distributed Emirati hiring equally between specialised healthcare professions and other skilled positions.

Organisations that fail to meet the requirements may face financial penalties under existing Emiratisation regulations.

Emirati Employment in Healthcare Continues to Rise

Government figures show that more than 8,800 Emiratis were employed in the private healthcare sector by the end of 2025. Women represented 82 per cent of this workforce.

The announcement also follows the extension of the Nafis programme through 2040, reinforcing the UAE's long-term commitment to increasing national participation in the private sector workforce.