The United Arab Emirates has seen a significant rise in Emiratis registered under its General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA), with the total reaching 190,063, representing a 13.6 percent increase compared to the previous year. Between January and September 21, 2026, the authority processed 44,760 registration transactions, which included new employee enrollments, employer transfers, reactivations, and updates to existing records.

Data show that 111,281 Emiratis are currently insured in the private sector, making up more than half of the workforce enrolled under the GPSSA. This growth reflects ongoing efforts to boost Emirati participation in private-sector employment, with pension benefits cited as an important factor encouraging nationals to consider careers outside the public sector.

The GPSSA collaborates with over 23,000 private-sector employers and continues its partnership with the Nafis program, which provides salary support and employment incentives to enhance Emirati employment. While Nafis offers financial incentives, the GPSSA focuses on ensuring pension coverage for all eligible employees.

Employers are reminded that the registration of eligible Emirati employees in the pension system must occur within 30 days of their official start date. Eligibility criteria include being a UAE national between the ages of 18 and 60 and meeting specified medical fitness requirements.

In addition to pension coverage efforts, the GPSSA promotes financial literacy through its Warfa program, developed in cooperation with Jahiz and Nafis. Since its launch, the program has trained 6,310 Emiratis, equipping participants with knowledge in financial planning, investments, and retirement preparation.

The authority has committed to further enhancing its digital services and strengthening collaboration with employers to ensure comprehensive pension protection for Emiratis throughout their careers.