Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Nafis — the Emirati Talent Competitiveness programme — has successfully connected thousands of UAE nationals with job opportunities in advanced manufacturing facilities across the country, representatives for the initiative told Aletihad.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and private sector stakeholders, Nafis is actively increasing Emirati employment in the industrial sector, supporting the nation's broader goals of economic diversification.
Under its Industrialist Programme, Nafis provides Emiratis with targeted training and career exposure through tie-ups with major entities such as ADNOC.
“Through our strategic partnership with ADNOC, three MoUs were signed over the past three years — with targets growing from 2,000 roles by 2025 to13,500 opportunities within ADNOC’s ICV programme by 2028,” Nafis representatives said on the sidelines of Make it in the Emirates.
Notable outcomes were seen from other initiatives, such as the Industrialist Career Exhibition.
“Supported by Nafis, MoIAT, MOHRE, and ADNOC, the exhibition generated over 3,000 job opportunities across the UAE in just 18 months. In Al Ain alone, 500 roles were offered over two days,” the representatives said.
Bringing this career fair to MIITE, Nafis connects job-seekers with relevant companies based on their skills and the needs of the sector.
Employers hiring through Nafis also benefit from a range of incentives. “The Nafis platform provides hiring companies access to a national talent database. We offer a comprehensive package of financial and structural incentives. For example, the pension rebate programme partially reimburses companies for their contributions to Emirati employees’ pensions.”
Beyond financial support, Nafis offers talent programmes that provide upskilling opportunities to Emiratis in the private sector.
Alignment with the education industry is also central to the council’s mission.
“Through collaborations with universities, vocational institutes, and training centres, we help design programmes that reflect actual labour market needs. Emirati students are encouraged to pursue studies in engineering, manufacturing technologies, and digital skills,” Nafis representatives said.
It also facilitates internships, apprenticeships, and mentorships, helping bridge the gap between academia and employment.
“We have launched the Healthcare Development Programme in collaboration with 11 UAE universities, the apprentice programme for fresh graduates, on-the-job training placements, and our talent programme focusing on AI, data analysis, and financial services.”
As the UAE transforms its industrial sector into a global manufacturing powerhouse, Nafis supports the delivery of human capital that can make that vision a reality.
It empowers Emiratis to spearhead innovation in vital sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and smart technology.
Key performance indicators are tracked carefully.“The council monitors job creation, placement rates, retention, income growth, and high-skilled job placements; each of which reflects the broader Emiratisation strategy.”
Nafis will continue to evolve with national priorities, the team said. “We are refining our employment-matching tools and co-designing upskilling pathways with industry leaders. The goal is not just more employment — but sustainable, high-skill employment that drives resilience and national economic strength.”
