The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced that the minimum wage for Emiratis working in the private sector will rise to Dh6,000 from January 1, 2026, to support Emiratisation and improve job stability.
The ministry said the new wage will apply to all Emirati work permits, whether issued, renewed, or amended, and any application listing a salary below Dh6,000 will be rejected from 2026. Employers will be notified through MoHRE’s digital channels and required to update salaries.
If salaries are not adjusted by June 30, 2026, penalties will take effect from July 1, including excluding employees from Emiratisation calculations and restricting the issuance of new work permits.
