This new type of leave is granted to working mothers who have children with disabilities or chronic illnesses. The leave extends for a full year with pay after the end of maternity leave and is extendable for up to three years, reflecting Sharjah's pioneering vision to support families and empower women.

The emirate is among the first cities in the world to include this type of sustainable leave within government legislation, placing it among the most advanced cities in providing supportive policies for working mothers, taking into account their human and social circumstances, within a flexible and fair work environment.

The decision was based on a comprehensive two-year study conducted by the NAMA Women Advancement Establishment in collaboration with the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS). The study included a thorough review of local and federal regulations to identify gaps and the needs of mothers whose circumstances require close and constant care for their sick or disabled children.

Commenting on the decision, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of NAMA, emphasized that this directive reflects the profound humanitarian essence embraced by the Emirate of Sharjah. She emphasized that empowering women begins with respecting their role as mothers and providing a work and social environment that guarantees their safety and stability. She said, "What we are seeing today is not a traditional administrative procedure, but rather a civilized act that establishes a balanced and healthy society."

In a radio interview, Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Human Resources Directorate, revealed that the new leave is officially included in the emirate's Human Resources Law and is granted based on an approved medical report, with the child's condition being evaluated annually. The leave may be suspended if the child's health improves, or extended for more than three years with the approval of the Higher Committee for Human Resources in exceptional cases.

Sharjah is credited with confidently moving toward building an integrated work environment that does not ignore social and humanitarian aspects, but rather makes them part of a comprehensive development system. "Care Leave" not only represents a qualitative addition to legislation, but also expresses a development vision that places the individual—and the family in particular—at the heart of decision-making.

Urgent UAE: Announcement of a New Leave Scheme in the Emirate of Sharjah

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