UAE Gears Up for September 2026: New Nafis Rules, Etihad Rail Expansion, and Major Events

The United Arab Emirates is set to usher in a busy new season in September 2026, with a wave of changes and major events planned across the country. Residents returning after the summer will find updated Nafis salary benefits for Emiratis in the private sector, alongside the continued expansion of the Etihad Rail network.

A key development is the revised Nafis framework, which will take effect for new beneficiaries in September 2026. This includes new salary-support caps, a standard minimum salary requirement of Dh6,000 for eligibility, an uncapped child allowance, and adjustments to employers' pension contribution responsibilities. The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) stated that existing recipients of the Private Sector Emirati Salary Support Scheme will be gradually transitioned to the new framework over a period of up to three years.

Etihad Rail is also set to reach a major milestone on September 30, 2026, with the formal launch of passenger services. The network will expand to include two new stations: Dubai Station, located near Jumeirah Golf Estates, and Al Dhaid Station in Sharjah. This follows the first phase of the passenger network, which connected Abu Dhabi with Fujairah on June 30. Dubai's Al Yalayis Station will also feature a pedestrian link to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Dubai Metro's Red Line.

Beyond infrastructure and employment benefits, September will host several significant events. Hajj registration for UAE citizens wishing to perform the pilgrimage next year will open on September 14, 2026. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat announced that pilgrims will be selected via an automated screening process, with 6,228 Emirati citizens approved for Hajj in 2026.

Additionally, the Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) is scheduled from September 11 to 13 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, drawing fans of comics, films, gaming, and pop culture. The EuroLeague Basketball SuperCup Abu Dhabi 2026 will also take place at Etihad Arena on September 18 and 19, further enhancing the UAE's calendar of international sporting events.