General Women's Union Launches First Official Employment Programme For Productive Families In UAE

The General Women's Union (GWU) has introduced a groundbreaking employment programme for Productive Families, offering them a fixed monthly salary and comprehensive job benefits. This initiative aligns with the "Mother of the Nation's 50:50 Vision," which aims to empower women economically and socially until 2075. The announcement was made during the second edition of the "Creatives Path Programme" in Al Ain City.

This programme is a practical embodiment of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's vision to enhance women's participation across various development fields. Under this initiative, Productive Families are recognised as "official employees" with a monthly salary and a share of net profits from products sold through the GWU's Centre for Traditional Industries and Handicrafts.

Participants in this programme enjoy flexibility, producing a set number of products weekly without strict working hours or mandatory physical attendance. This approach suits family-based and creative work, allowing women to balance professional and personal responsibilities effectively.

The programme also ensures that female employees are registered with the Abu Dhabi Pension Fund, providing them with insurance coverage for a secure future. Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the GWU, highlighted that this model reflects H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's confidence in Emirati women's capabilities and her commitment to their economic empowerment.

"This initiative does not only offer a stable source of income to families," Al Suwaidi stated, "but it also opens new pathways for institutional and sustainable contributions to the national economy."

Supporting Traditional Crafts

Eng. Ghalia Ali Al Mannai, Head of Strategic and Development Affairs at the GWU, noted that this employment mechanism provides Productive Families with flexible work structures from home while ensuring full professional and legal protections, including pension registration.

"Allocating a share of profits further strengthens motivation and enhances product quality," Al Mannai mentioned, "which is essential for the sustainability and competitiveness of traditional crafts in the market."

A Shift in Economic Integration

This employment model represents a significant shift in supporting home-based economies by integrating Productive Families into the national economic cycle under a socially protective framework. It serves as a national platform promoting Emirati innovation while expanding sustainable employment opportunities.

The Creatives Path Programme also unveiled new opportunities aimed at supporting Emirati job seekers in cultural sectors. This includes employment placements in collaboration with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis), aligning with UAE’s goals to empower women in creative industries.

With inputs from WAM