Abu Dhabi revamps maternity leave for Emiratis in private sector

The Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi (DCD) has launched the Emirati Family Growth Support Programme, which aims to support UAE Nationals in building stable and prosperous family life. 

The initiative includes a maternity leave extension of up to 90 days, providing significant support for women working in the private sector, aligning with Abu Dhabi's strategy for enhancing family quality of life up to 2028. Prior to this amendment, maternity leave for private sector women was up to 60 days, including 45 days fully paid and 15 days half paid. Additionally, women employees could request an additional 45 days off without pay due to postpartum illness or lack of childcare support, often leading to career break, resignation and increased turnover rates. With the extended maternity leave, women will be able to take sufficient rest and care for their newborns. This move is expected to significantly benefit working mothers, allowing them to balance their professional responsibilities with the essential needs of their families.

In addition to the maternity leave extension, the authorities have also introduced additional initiatives to support the quality of family life for Emiratis, including:

• Facilitated marriage loan: Financial aid without interest or additional charges to encourage simple marriages among Emiratis working in both public and private sectors. This initiative is led by the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority.
• Home visit service: Provides assistance during the first weeks of motherhood, supporting parents' well-being and monitoring the child's growth and development.
• Rental assistance for newlyweds: Offers annual rental assistance for newly married couples, gradually declining over four years, with specific incentives linked to the birth of children.
• Loan partial deduction: Provides exemptions and extensions related to housing loans, specifically linked to the birth of a fourth, fifth, and sixth child in the family. The extension period is three years following the birth of each child.

These initiatives will be implemented over a period of five years by the DCD in collaboration with several partners, including the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, and Abu Dhabi Housing Authority. The programme comprises multiple initiatives designed to encourage marriage, family growth, and parenthood.

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Commenting on the launch of the programme, Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, emphasised the commitment of the UAE's leadership to providing a high standard of living for all citizens. “Our wise leadership is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Emirati families, recognising them as the true wealth of the country and the foundation for sustainable development," he stated.

Abdulla Al Ameri, Director General of Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, highlighted the UAE's commitment to supporting the growth of Emirati families, recognising their vital role in national development. The Abu Dhabi government is actively developing initiatives to ensure a high standard of life for all citizens. The Department of Community Development is establishing a comprehensive framework to enhance the quality of life for families, youth, and parents. “At SSA, we are proud to be involved in programmes that foster the development of Emirati families, support newly married couples, and extend maternity leave. These initiatives promote social stability by strengthening family and community bonds. Our goal is to help newly married citizens build resilient families, balancing family and professional responsibilities. These efforts enhance family cohesion and stability, contributing to the overall prosperity of Abu Dhabi society,” he added.