Abu Dhabi announces details of extended maternity leave for some private sector employees

emirates7 - On Tuesday, Abu Dhabi unveiled details of extended maternity leave for Emirati women employed in the private sector.

The newly announced 90-day maternity leave, effective for mothers giving birth from September 1, 2024, was first revealed earlier this year.

In July, authorities announced that maternity leave for Emirati women in the private sector would be extended from 60 days to 90 days. While public sector employees have long been entitled to three months of paid maternity leave, women in private companies have typically received 60 days — with 45 days fully paid and the remaining 15 days at half pay, as outlined by UAE Labour Law.

Under the new policy, Emirati mothers working in the private sector will now be entitled to a 90-day leave "to ensure sufficient time for rest and newborn care," according to the authorities. The Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority will be responsible for implementing this new regulation.

Additionally, new mothers will receive support during the early weeks of motherhood through a "home visit service" introduced by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority. This service aims to promote parental well-being and monitor the baby's growth and development.

Beyond the extended maternity leave and home visit services, Emirati couples will also benefit from various other initiatives and financial assistance programs, including marriage loans, loan reductions, and rental support.