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The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) has clarified that the newly introduced “Nafis” support programmes for the spouses of Emirati citizens employed in the private sector are conditional upon the continuation of the marital relationship. As a result, non-Emirati divorcees and widows are currently ineligible for these initiatives.
The Council emphasised that the potential expansion of the programme’s coverage is under continual review to ensure alignment with societal priorities and evolving future needs.
According to the ETCC, the latest updates to the “Nafis” programme, which now extend support to wives of Emirati private-sector employees, highlight the UAE’s commitment to fostering an inclusive national support framework. This framework is designed to adapt to social changes and uphold the vision of the country’s leadership in promoting family stability. Additionally, it aims to enhance Emirati talent competitiveness by expanding eligibility, creating greater employment opportunities, and supporting the retention of Emiratis in private-sector roles. The initiative further seeks to ease family responsibilities while contributing to broader economic goals.
The Council outlined the eligibility criteria for the programme supporting Emirati wives employed in the private sector. The initiative requires applicants to have a monthly salary ranging between Dhs6,000 and Dhs15,000, as well as a bachelor’s degree accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Additionally, applicants must either have at least two children or have been married for a minimum of five years. The husband must be an Emirati working in either the private or public sector, although applications are also considered if the husband is retired or unable to work due to verified health conditions supported by official medical reports.
Exemptions to the requirements concerning the number of children and length of marriage are available for medical professionals with medical degrees, educational professionals, and PhD holders. These degrees must be accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and issued by one of the top 500 universities globally in their respective fields. Alternatively, candidates with significant practical experience in critical roles within the labor market may also qualify. The programme offers monthly salary support of up to Dhs3,000.
The Council also indicated that the programme and its support mechanisms have been revised based on a comprehensive study aimed at balancing programme sustainability, enhancing job stability, and broadening the scope of beneficiaries. These updates ensure ongoing support for Emirati citizens working in the private sector while paving the way for new initiatives targeting additional groups.
