Global real estate developer Sobha Realty has announced an extended maternity leave of up to 120 days for all its female employees, along with other benefits to be enjoyed during this period.

Marking a significant milestone in its people-first policies, the real estate developer has reinforced its commitment to employee well-being and workplace excellence.

All female employees will be entitled to 120 days of maternity leave, in addition to other employee benefits, as the company aims to retain them by building a compassionate and inclusive workplace.

The policy stands out as an extension to the UAE Labour Laws, which entitle Emirati working women to 90 days of maternity leave in both the private and government sectors, as confirmed by the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (ADSSA).

For non-Emirati working women, the policy entitles them to 60 days of maternity leave, including 45 days with full pay and the remaining 15 days with half pay or basic pay. However, these are minimum entitlements and do not restrict employers from offering more generous employee benefits.

Ravi Menon, Chairman at Sobha Group, said, “At Sobha Realty, we have always believed that true excellence begins with our people.

This new maternity policy is a statement of our values. It is our continued effort to support employees and to stand beside them during life’s most important moments—as a family.

This is yet another initiative that embodies the core of who we are: driven by compassion, grounded in commitment, and focused on continuous improvement.”

As per the company's ESG 2023 report, around 26% of its total workforce are women, and in the UAE, 60% of its Emirati workforce are women. 

This extended maternity leave policy marks a first in the UAE real estate sector, offering a truly comprehensive and inclusive framework that supports the needs of working mothers.

The announcement comes as the real estate developer received Great Place to Work (GPTW) certification for the second consecutive year.

Menon commented, “This certification is evidence of our success in fostering a positive work atmosphere for our team members. We empower our team members to grow in their positions and make significant contributions to the goals of the company by fostering a culture of continued learning. Shaping a supportive workplace for them is of the utmost importance.”

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The enhanced maternity leave reflects the company’s ongoing efforts not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them in ways that are meaningful to its employees.