UAE explores remote work, extended maternity leave to support working mothers

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is considering expanded remote and flexible working arrangements for working mothers and caregivers, as part of broader efforts to strengthen family protection, social stability and work-life balance.

During a Federal National Council (FNC) session held on Wednesday, January 21, members called for flexible and remote work policies to be prioritised for mothers and other groups with caregiving responsibilities, particularly during the early years of a child’s life.

The proposal was raised during discussions on the Family Protection and the Concept of the Family Unit report, prepared by the Committee on Social Affairs, Labour, Population and Human Resources, and attended by Minister of Family Affairs Sana bint Mohammed Suhail.

Remote work for priority groups

The recommendations focus on prioritising remote and flexible working options for mothers with children under the age of 10, mothers of children of determination, women caring for elderly parents at home, and special humanitarian cases.

However, the Council did not specify whether the proposed measures would apply to public sector employees, private sector workers, or both.

Mariam Majid Bin Thania, Second Deputy Speaker of the FNC and Chairperson of the Committee on Social Affairs, Labour, Population and Human Resources, underscored the importance of a mother’s presence during a child’s formative years.

“We emphasise the importance of a mother being present alongside her children during the early stages of their lives, especially children of determination, children under the age of ten, as well as women who are caring for their parents at home,” she said.

Bin Thania added that the Council has repeatedly called for flexible and remote work arrangements to be prioritised for these groups, in line with earlier recommendations.

Balancing work and family responsibilities

According to the FNC, remote work is a key enabler for women to balance professional responsibilities with family commitments, without diminishing their contribution to national development.

“The balance between a woman’s work and her home is an important demand, and this is evident from the policy pursued by the Ministry of Family since its establishment,” Bin Thania said.

She stressed that working mothers remain a vital pillar of the UAE’s development journey, whether they perform their roles from the workplace or remotely, noting that remote work is no less valuable than on-site work.

Proposal to extend maternity leave

In addition to remote work measures, the FNC also recommended extending maternity leave for government sector employees to a minimum of 98 fully paid days, aligning with international best practices.

The recommendations form part of ongoing policy discussions aimed at supporting families, enhancing workforce participation, and promoting sustainable social development across the UAE.