Abu Dhabi Declares 90-Day Maternity Leave For Private Sector Emirati Mothers. Who's Eligible And How To Apply

The Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (SSA) has unveiled the Maternity Leave Support for Women in Private Sector Initiative. The initiative extends paid maternity leave for Emirati mothers employed in the private sector to 90 days.

Emirati mothers can apply for financial support that complements their salary during this period, provided they have their employer's approval.

The new service is available to Emirati mothers working in the private sector who have a family book issued in Abu Dhabi and have obtained a no-objection certificate from their employer. To qualify for this service, individuals must apply for the service within the first 30 days of the baby's delivery. They must also provide a valid salary certificate, and their bank account details, including the IBAN. The child's birth date must be on or after 1 September 2024.

This aligns with public sector practices and highlights SSA's dedication to fostering Emirati family growth and cohesion. The initiative aims to help mothers balance work and newborn care.

Dr. Bushra Al Mulla, Director General of SSA, stated: "The initiative to support maternity leave for women in the private sector demonstrates the Abu Dhabi government's commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for newborns. This effort promotes social and family cohesion, ensuring that infants receive the care and support they need for healthy growth and development within their families and communities.

"By enhancing family stability, we are implementing best practices and standards in the social sector, ensuring the well-being of mothers and their newborns, which will positively impact the overall quality of family life."

Dr. Ahmed Al Azeezi, Executive Director of the Social Support Applications Sector at SSA, explained: "The Maternity Leave Support for Women in the Private Sector Programme, designed to complement the Nafis programme, seeks to provide up to 90 days of paid maternity leave for Emirati mothers working in the private sector.

"This initiative relies on a collaborative approach and partnership with private sector entities and companies, which we encourage to adopt this voluntary programme. Our objective is to fulfil the goals of the Emirati Family Growth Support Program in Abu Dhabi, enhancing family stability and strengthening its social role."

This initiative aligns with government directives encouraging Emiratis to join the private sector. It supports SSA's strategic vision of enhancing Emirati family stability while boosting their social contribution. The Authority aims to expand strategic partnerships for broader adoption as part of corporate social responsibility.

The SSA will provide details in September 2024 regarding service delivery channels and application commencement dates for this support programme.