The revised Nafis framework began applying to new beneficiaries in September, with a Dh6,000 minimum salary for eligibility, updated salary-support caps and an uncapped child allowance. Existing recipients are being transitioned gradually, so the rules do not affect every beneficiary at once.

The details

The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council introduced revised Nafis salary-support rules for new beneficiaries from September 2026. The framework includes a standard minimum salary of Dh6,000 for eligibility, revised salary-support caps, an uncapped child allowance and changes to employers’ pension-contribution responsibilities.

Existing recipients of the Private Sector Emirati Salary Support Scheme are expected to transition to the revised framework gradually over a period of up to three years. The change therefore applies differently depending on whether an Emirati employee is a new beneficiary or already receiving support.

This is primarily relevant to Emirati private-sector employees and employers. It should not be written as a general wage increase or as a rule applying to all UAE workers.