UAE Proposes Remote Work For Working Mothers

In a proposal to the Federal National Council (FNC), member Maryam Majid bin Thaniah advocates for the option of remote work for working mothers, specifically those with children under 10. Recognizing the need for maternal attention and care for young children, she extends the proposal to include mothers caring for children with special needs and those tending to elderly parents. Bin Thaniah suggests a hybrid approach, allowing mothers to work in the office during the first half of the day and remotely from home during the second half.

Concerns are raised about the increased burden on female employees, especially those caring for special groups, following recent amendments to working hours in federal authorities. Bin Thaniah questions the measures taken by the Federal Authority for Human Resources to address the needs of this employee category. The focus is on understanding and alleviating the challenges faced by working mothers in balancing professional responsibilities with unique family circumstances.

In response, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future, Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, underscores efforts made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources to provide a flexible work environment. She highlights existing measures, including part-time, temporary, flexible, and full-time employment patterns as per Federal Decree Law No. (49) of 2022. Al Roumi emphasizes a weekly work system reducing days to four and a half, flexible working hours, and remote work regulations. Circular No. (2) of 2022 permits federal government employees to work remotely on Fridays.

The minister cites executive regulations supporting working mothers in terms of leave and assistance for patients. She mentions UAE Cabinet No. (27) of 2020, approving a remote work system for federal government employees, ensuring flexibility without compromising rights or performance. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources is preparing a general framework for work flexibility, set to launch soon for use by federal authorities. Overall, the proposal aims to address the evolving needs of working mothers within the context of the changing work landscape, considering both professional and familial obligations.