Salaries of UAE nationals rose by around six per cent annually in 2025, reflecting growing competition among private sector employers to attract local talent. Many companies already pay well above the revised minimum wage of Dh6,000 announced by the government last month, recruitment and HR experts said.

The increase comes as part of the UAE’s broader push to boost Emiratisation in the private sector, especially as more young Emiratis enter the workforce.

What does New Minimum Wage Mean for Employers?

Effective January 1, 2026, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) raised the minimum wage for Emiratis in private sector roles from Dh5,000 to Dh6,000 per month.

Vijay Gandhi, regional director at Korn Ferry Digital, EMEA, said the move is designed to build confidence among nationals considering private sector careers. “Most organisations already pay above the minimum wage, but this policy will expand the pool of Emiratis willing to join private companies,” he told Khaleej Times.

According to experts, the change primarily protects workers in lower-paid roles rather than resetting market benchmarks.

Are Emiratis Already Earning More Than Dh6,000?

Dr Trefor Murphy, founder and CEO of Cooper Fitch, said graduate-level salaries for Emiratis typically range between Dh10,000 and Dh12,000 per month. “The adjustment safeguards lower-paid segments. It does not reflect prevailing salary levels for most nationals,” he said.

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Why are Hybrid Jobs Now Key Demand?

Flexible work has emerged as a major priority for Emirati professionals. Vineet Mehra, head of sales at Adecco, said competitive pay alone is no longer enough. “Hybrid work models, career progression, and meaningful roles are essential,” he said.

Companies combining fair compensation with skills development and impact-driven roles are better positioned to meet Emiratisation goals.

Which Employers do Emiratis Prefer?

Specialists claim that the citizens of the United Arab Emirates prefer to work for international companies and strong local firms that have good training and education programs. The university graduates usually apply for jobs that match their degree, but the less educated ones are more flexible and look at the development of skills and their own growth in the long run.