Sharjah Grants Extended Paid Leave to Mothers of Children with Special Needs

Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved a new policy termed “Care Leave,” offering extended paid leave to female government employees who give birth to children with disabilities or chronic illnesses requiring ongoing care.

The initiative, effective from 5 May 2025, allows eligible mothers to take an initial one-year fully paid leave following the conclusion of standard maternity leave. This period can be extended up to three years, subject to annual medical assessments and approval by the relevant authorities. In exceptional cases, further extensions may be granted by the Higher Committee for Human Resources.

Announced by Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Human Resources, during a broadcast on Sharjah Radio and Television’s “Direct Line” programme, the policy aims to alleviate the burden on working mothers balancing professional responsibilities with the demands of caring for children with significant health needs.

The development follows a two-year study conducted by NAMA Women Advancement, in collaboration with Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. The research highlighted the challenges faced by working mothers of children with special needs and recommended policy interventions to support them. The study’s findings underscored the necessity for institutional support to enable mothers to fulfill both caregiving and professional roles effectively.

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of NAMA and wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, emphasized that the policy reflects the emirate’s commitment to a human-centered approach to development. She stated that supporting mothers in such circumstances is crucial for building a compassionate and balanced society.