UAE to launch Etihad Rail passenger services and update Nafis rules

The United Arab Emirates will implement several significant regulatory and infrastructure changes in September 2026. The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) is set to introduce a revised Nafis framework for Emirati employees in the private sector. This update includes new salary-support caps, a minimum salary requirement of Dh6,000 for eligibility, an uncapped child allowance, and adjusted pension-contribution responsibilities for employers. Existing recipients of the Private Sector Emirati Salary Support Scheme will transition to this new framework gradually over three years.

In transportation, Etihad Rail will formally launch passenger services on September 30, 2026. This expansion includes the opening of new stations in Dubai, located near Jumeirah Golf Estates, and Al Dhaid in Sharjah. The Dubai Al Yalayis Station will feature a pedestrian link to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Dubai Metro Red Line.

Additionally, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Mosques will open Hajj registration for UAE citizens starting September 14, 2026.