The UAE is taking another step towards strengthening family-friendly policies, proposing that paid maternity leave for government employees could be extended to 98 days.
The move reflects the country’s wider commitment to supporting working parents, improving work-life balance, and creating a more inclusive workplace environment for mothers.
What’s Being Proposed?
The proposal was discussed during a recent Federal National Council (FNC) session, where members reviewed recommendations focused on family protection and social well-being.
One of the key suggestions was to increase the duration of fully paid maternity leave in the government sector from the current allowance.
Lawmakers highlighted that extending maternity leave would give new mothers additional time to recover after childbirth and focus on early childcare, without the pressure of returning to work too soon.
Part of a Bigger Picture
The maternity leave extension forms part of a wider set of recommendations aimed at improving family support across the country.
Longer maternity leave is widely recognised as beneficial for both parents and children. FNC members noted that additional paid maternity leave can support maternal health, strengthen early bonding, and help women remain active in the workforce over the long term.
During the same discussions, the council also emphasised the importance of flexible and remote working options for parents and caregivers, particularly for mothers with young children and those responsible for elderly family members.
There were also calls to ensure that family-focused policies are applied consistently, rather than differing from one employer to another.
What Happens Next?
The recommendation will now move through the relevant legislative and policy channels for further review.
If approved, the extension to 98 days would mark another milestone in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to support mothers, families and modern working life.
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