His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has directed the introduction of a new leave within the emirate’s government employment framework. This newly approved “Care Leave” is designed specifically for working mothers who have given birth to children with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
The 1-year paid leave can be extended up to three years under certain conditions, which further cements Sharjah’s status as a leader in advancing family-oriented and women-empowering policies. Sharjah now joins leading cities worldwide offering flexible and long-term paid government leave, positioning itself at the forefront of progressive global cities prioritising support for working mothers, and enhancing community’s quality of life.
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of NAMA and the wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, affirmed that this decision, guided by His Highness’s vision, reflects the emirate’s human-centred approach to development, which is rooted in the belief that community development begins with empowering mothers, understanding their needs, and providing them a supportive and secure environment.
Sheikha Jawaher said: “Seemingly an administrative decision, this directive will serve as a building block of Sharjah’s healthy, well-balanced society in future. Our emirate admires women for being able to successfully juggle their roles as mothers and career women, and we believe that their emotional and financial stability is key to raising confident and conscious generations. "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."
Sheikh Jawaher added: "At NAMA, we work on reviewing women’s developmental policies, and formulate recommendations for our partners in the government working in these sectors, thereby ensuring meaningful integration for women in both economic and social life. We also design initiatives and projects based on our real-time research and studies, ensuring that motherhood can be enjoyed like a valued contribution, and not feel like a burden. We hope this initiative will serve as a model across the Arab world for developing flexible and just policies that place human welfare at the heart.”
On the other hand, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved AED 27 million for Al Ramaqiah area and AED 15 million for Al Suwaihat area to implement internal roads in both regions, following the completion of sewage work. Work teams will then move on to other areas.