His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved a new “Care Leave” policy within the emirate’s government employment system. The initiative grants fully paid leave for one year—extendable up to three years—for working mothers whose children are born with disabilities or chronic illnesses, reinforcing Sharjah’s commitment to family-centered and women-focused policies.

The emirate joins progressive global cities in offering long-term, flexible paid leave, supporting working mothers and enhancing community well-being.

The policy results from a two-year study conducted by NAMA Women Advancement (NAMA), in collaboration with the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. The research reviewed federal and local policies to understand better the needs of mothers balancing careers with caregiving for medically vulnerable children and proposed solutions that support both responsibilities.

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of NAMA and wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, said the policy reflects a human-centred approach to development.

Her Highness stated, “Seemingly an administrative decision, this directive will serve as a building block of Sharjah’s healthy, well-balanced society in the 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.”

She added, “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.”

H.E. Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Human Resources Department, announced that the policy will take effect on May 5, 2025. It applies after the completion of maternity leave, based on certified medical reports, and may be extended or suspended depending on the child’s condition and official reassessments.