The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is exploring expanded remote and flexible working arrangements for mothers and caregivers, as part of ongoing initiatives to enhance family protection, social stability, and work-life balance.
During a session of the Federal National Council (FNC) on Wednesday, January 21, members highlighted the need for flexible and remote work policies to be prioritised for mothers and other individuals with caregiving responsibilities, particularly during the early years of a child’s life.
The proposal was discussed in the context of the Family Protection and the Concept of the Family Unit report, prepared by the Committee on Social Affairs, Labour, Population and Human Resources, and attended by Minister of Family Affairs Sana bint Mohammed Suhail.
The recommendations aim to prioritise remote and flexible work options for mothers of children under ten, mothers of children of determination, women caring for elderly parents at home, and cases requiring special humanitarian consideration.
The Council has not yet clarified whether these measures would apply solely to public sector employees, private sector workers, or both.
Mariam Majid Bin Thania, Second Deputy Speaker of the FNC and Chairperson of the Committee on Social Affairs, Labour, Population and Human Resources, stressed the importance of a mother’s presence during her child’s formative years.
“We emphasise the importance of a mother being present alongside her children during the early stages of their lives, especially children of determination and children under the age of ten, as well as women caring for their parents at home,” she stated.
Bin Thania added that the Council has consistently advocated for flexible and remote work arrangements for these priority groups, in alignment with earlier recommendations.
