UAE Sets New AED 6,000 Minimum Salary for Emiratis in Private sector

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Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has announced a significant increase in the minimum wage for Emirati citizens employed in the private sector, raising it to AED 6,000 per month effective 1 January 2026, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed. This represents a policy shift aimed at enhancing compensation standards for UAE nationals outside the public sector.

 Under the new rule, all Emirati workers in private companies must receive at least AED 6,000 monthly, up from the previous minimum of AED 5,000. The requirement applies to new work permits, as well as renewals and amendments of existing contracts processed from the start of 2026.

 Employers have been given a transition period until 30 June 2026 to adjust the salaries of current Emirati employees to meet the new threshold, with compliance linked to services such as issuing, renewing or modifying Emirati work permits. After this deadline, companies failing to align salaries may face administrative consequences such as restrictions on issuing new work permits and exclusion from Emiratisation quota calculations.

 The move forms part of the UAE’s broader Emiratisation strategy a long-term initiative to encourage greater participation of citizens in the private workforce and improve employment prospects outside government roles. Observers say the updated wage floor may also influence broader labor market standards and employer compensation planning.