What is the Emiratisation Fee policy in UAE?



Modified on: Mon, 17 Nov, 2025 at 3:17 PM


The Emiratisation fee is a mandatory monthly penalty imposed by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) on Mainland private sector companies that fail to meet Emiratisation hiring quotas.


Horizons operates as a DMCC Free Zone company, not as a Mainland entity registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Therefore, Horizons is currently exempt from MOHRE Emiratisation quotas and fees. 


Free Zone companies, such as those in DMCC, are governed by their respective Free Zone authorities and are currently exempt from MOHRE Emiratisation quotas and fees. While some Free Zones may introduce voluntary Emiratisation initiatives or incentives, there is no mandatory government fee or quota for DMCC entities.

Key Takeaways

  • The AED 500 Emiratisation fee is not applicable to DMCC Free Zone companies.
  • Emiratisation requirements and penalties apply only to Mainland MOHRE-registered entities.
  • DMCC companies remain subject to their own Free Zone compliance rules, which do not currently include mandatory Emiratisation quotas.
  • More details in About MOHRE | About Us | Ministry of Human Resources &...  

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