Expectant mothers in Abu Dhabi's private sector are expressing relief and gratitude over a new initiative that extends their maternity leave by an additional 30 days. Authorities announced on Tuesday that the 90-day fully paid maternity leave will apply to mothers giving birth from September 1.
Emirati expectant mothers have praised the initiative launched by the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority. Maryam Al Bloushi from Al Ain, who is pregnant with her third child and has twins, commented on the current two-month maternity leave, stating, "Two months are just not enough for a new mother or for a baby that needs care primarily from its mother."
Alya Al Harithi, a private sector employee, shared her joy regarding the announcement. She recalled the challenges of spending enough time with her first daughter, Shahad, especially as a new mother recovering from a cesarean section. In the UAE, women with government jobs receive three months of paid maternity leave, whereas those in the private sector typically get up to 60 days, with 45 days fully paid and the rest at half pay.
Al Harithi noted that some private sector employees might be hesitant to have babies due to the leave policy. "This decision is excellent for all mothers; it encourages us to have children. I hope this will eventually be applied to all mothers across the UAE." The initiative is part of the Emirati Family Growth Support Programme by the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi (DCD), aimed at supporting UAE nationals in building and growing their families.
Abrar Al Saadi, a mother of three from Abu Dhabi and a private sector employee, praised the decision, highlighting the importance of the first three months after delivery for both mother and child. "A mother needs adequate time to recover physically and mentally, while the child requires sufficient care and attention during this critical period." Al Saadi also emphasized the positive impact of this initiative on encouraging stable family growth among married women in the private sector and enhancing the role of fathers in raising their children.
She further stressed the importance of extending this initiative to all Emirates to support the growth and development of Emirati families, encouraging marriage and contributing to the strengthening of family and community cohesion in the UAE.
