UAE's Progressive Stride: Longer Maternity Leaves for Working Moms

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has consistently positioned itself as a global leader in gender equality and women's empowerment. A recent trend among some UAE companies to offer extended maternity leaves, including a year off with full pay, is a testament to this commitment.

Why Longer Maternity Leaves Matter

Longer maternity leaves provide numerous benefits for both mothers and employers:

• Improved Maternal and Child Health: Adequate rest and bonding time are crucial for a mother's physical and mental recovery, as well as the healthy development of the child.
• Increased Employee Retention: Offering generous maternity leave can attract and retain top talent, especially women.
• Enhanced Productivity and Morale: Happy and supported employees are more likely to be productive and engaged.

Balancing Business Needs and Employee Welfare

While offering extended maternity leave is a commendable step, companies must carefully consider the potential impact on their operations. Factors to consider include:

• Workload Distribution: Implementing strategies to redistribute workloads among team members to ensure smooth operations.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible work options, such as remote work or reduced hours, to accommodate the needs of returning mothers.
• Training and Development: Providing opportunities for returning mothers to upskill and reskill, ensuring a seamless transition back to work.

By striking a balance between business objectives and employee well-being, companies can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

A Step Towards Gender Equality

The UAE's commitment to gender equality is evident in its progressive policies and initiatives. By offering extended maternity leaves, companies in the UAE are not only complying with labor laws but also setting a positive example for other countries in the region and beyond.

As HR professionals and business leaders, we must continue to advocate for policies that support working mothers and create a more equitable workplace for all.

Roujin Ghamsari is an accomplished HR practitioner and fellow of the CIPD, a professional body for HR and people development. Named among the 'Most Influential HR Practitioners 2023', she excels at collaborating with C-Suite leadership to craft and implement robust people plans, enabling organisations to deliver their strategic objectives.