In a groundbreaking move to better support working mothers, the Sharjah government has introduced a new type of leave — called Care Leave — for female employees who give birth to children with serious medical conditions or disabilities. The Care Leave for Mothers in Sharjah, announced recently, will allow mothers to take up to three years of extended leave after maternity leave, ensuring they have the time and space to care for their child without jeopardizing their careers.
The announcement was made by Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Human Resources Department, on the Direct Line radio programme. The policy, which takes effect from May 5, 2025, reflects a growing understanding of the unique pressures mothers face when raising children who require continuous medical attention.
A Policy Built on Compassion and Practicality
Under the new regulation, the Care Leave for Mothers in Sharjah will kick in once the standard maternity leave ends. Mothers who wish to avail the leave must submit a medical report from an approved healthcare authority detailing the child’s condition and the need for ongoing care.
Initially, the leave runs for one year and can be extended annually — for a maximum of three years — as long as medical justification continues to be provided and approved. If the child’s health improves before that period ends, the leave will be suspended, and the mother can return to work based on medical advice and an official clearance.
In situations where care is still needed beyond three years, the case will be reviewed by the Higher Committee for Human Resources for a final decision.
One of the policy’s standout features is that the time spent on care leave will continue to count towards the employee’s total years of service. Performance evaluations during both maternity and care leave will also be handled within the framework of the government’s performance management system, safeguarding the employee’s career progression.
A Result of Careful Research and Advocacy
The introduction of Care Leave for Mothers in Sharjah wasn’t made overnight. It follows a comprehensive two-year study led by NAMA Women Advancement in partnership with the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. The research explored both federal and local policies, identifying the specific challenges working mothers face when their child is born with complex medical needs.
Their findings showed a pressing need for a structured, long-term leave solution that would allow mothers to focus on their child’s health without sacrificing their jobs. Based on this evidence, the study proposed the framework that has now been approved and implemented.
Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of NAMA and wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, was a driving force behind the initiative. Commenting on the new policy, she said:
“A mother who faces the daily challenge of caring for a sick or disabled child deserves our full support and access to the tools that help her persevere. Without institutional backing, she should not be burdened with choosing between motherhood and her career.”
How the New Care Leave Will Work
Here’s how eligible Sharjah government employees can apply for the new leave:
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After maternity leave ends, apply for care leave with a supporting medical report.
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Annual renewals will require updated medical justification.
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If the child’s condition improves, leave will be suspended and a return-to-work permit issued.
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Cases needing leave beyond three years will go to the Higher Committee for review.
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The time on leave will still count towards service and factor into performance evaluations.
A Clear Message of Support
The Care Leave for Mothers in Sharjah sends a powerful message: no mother should be forced to choose between her career and her child’s well-being. It acknowledges the immense responsibility and emotional toll of caring for a newborn with medical challenges and provides the necessary institutional support to ease that burden.
Moreover, the policy strengthens Sharjah’s standing as a leader in progressive, family-friendly workplace regulations within the UAE. It builds on the emirate’s long-standing focus on women’s empowerment and social welfare, spearheaded by organisations like NAMA Women Advancement.
Sharjah Setting a New Standard
For working mothers across the UAE — and even beyond — the policy could set an important precedent. By recognizing that family responsibilities don’t end at the conclusion of maternity leave, Sharjah is paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
As of May 5, 2025, female employees in the Sharjah government facing the difficult journey of caring for a child with complex health needs can do so knowing that their workplace stands firmly behind them — not just with words, but with real, tangible policy.
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