Nafis Programme: UAE's Commitment Extended to 2040

Following directives from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has unveiled a significant extension of its flagship Nafis programme until 2040. This decision was officially announced by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

This strategic move underscores the UAE leadership’s vision to fortify Emiratization, promote workforce stability, and empower Emirati citizens to take active roles in the country's socio-economic development.

Important Updates to Nafis

The announcement came during a meeting of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council held at Qasr Al Watan on April 6, 2026.

Several significant updates to the Nafis programme were approved, which include:

• Removal of limits on eligible children for the Children’s Allowance

• New salary support initiatives for:

  • Emirati mothers working in the private sector

  • Wives of employed Emirati citizens in the private sector

These updates are in line with the UAE’s Year of Family 2026, further demonstrating a commitment to enhancing family stability and social cohesion.

Development of Emirati Talent

At the meeting’s conclusion, Sheikh Mansour also officiated the graduation ceremony for the second cohort of the Nafis Leadership Programme.

Twenty-five Emirati participants successfully completed advanced training, engaging in workshops and interacting directly with industry leaders, aiming to cultivate innovation, leadership abilities, and readiness for contemporary workplace challenges.

Vision for the Future

Sheikh Mansour noted that the Nafis extension to 2040 will:

• Enhance competitiveness within the national workforce

• Strengthen collaborations between public and private sectors

• Establish a stable and vibrant work environment

He asserted that investing in human resources remains the UAE’s utmost priority, emphasizing that human capital is the nation's most valuable asset.

Noteworthy Achievements Since Earlier Launch

Since its inception in September 2021, the Nafis programme has reached notable milestones, including:

• Employment of over 176,000 Emiratis

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

• Target achieved ahead of schedule

Empowerment of Women and Families

• Emirati women make up 74% of total beneficiaries

• Over 38,000 children benefited through allowances

These statistics highlight the programme’s significant effect on workforce engagement and family welfare.

Focus on Training and Skills

The programme has also provided extensive training opportunities:

• 3,500+ participants in the National Healthcare Programme

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

These initiatives aim to equip Emirati talent with skills suitable for future job market requirements.

Launched in 2021 with a budget of AED 24 billion as part of the UAE’s “Projects of the 50” initiative, the Nafis programme aimed to secure 170,000 Emiratis in private-sector roles—an objective already surpassed.