Emirati Women: Catalysts for UAE’s Growth and Development

The United Arab Emirates has made remarkable strides in empowering Emirati women, positioning them at the forefront of the nation’s progress. Vision 2031 marks a significant milestone in this journey, aiming to further enhance gender equality and women’s rights in the UAE. This forward-thinking initiative has an impact on various aspects of society, from the workforce to politics, and from education to health, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to creating a brighter future for its female citizens.

At the heart of Vision 2031 lies a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by Emirati women. The plan focuses on key areas such as work-life balance, women’s health, and leadership opportunities. It aims to boost women’s participation in STEM fields, entrepreneurship, and decision-making roles. Additionally, the initiative seeks to strengthen the legal framework to protect women’s rights, improve social protection, and support women with disabilities. Through these efforts, the UAE is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous society where Emirati women can thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.

Legal Framework for Gender Equality

Constitutional Rights

The UAE Constitution serves as the cornerstone for gender equality, guaranteeing equal rights for all citizens. It ensures that women enjoy the same legal status, access to education, right to practice professions, and property inheritance as men. This fundamental belief in equality has positioned the UAE as a leading country in gender parity within the region, as recognized by the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report.

Anti-Discrimination Laws

The UAE has implemented robust anti-discrimination laws to protect women’s rights and promote gender equality. Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2023 prohibits discrimination based on religion, gender, race, and other factors. The UAE Labor Law, particularly Article 4, forbids forced labor and discrimination in employment. It also safeguards women’s rights in the workplace, prohibiting termination due to pregnancy and mandating equal pay for equal work.

In 2018, the UAE Cabinet approved a law ensuring equal wages for women and men, further solidifying the country’s commitment to gender equality in the workforce. Additionally, Federal Law No. 29 of 2006 protects the rights of people of determination, including women with disabilities, guaranteeing equal opportunities in education and employment.

International Commitments

The UAE has demonstrated its dedication to gender equality on the global stage by ratifying several international treaties. In 2004, the country became a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The UAE has also ratified conventions related to equal remuneration, night work for women in industry, and minimum age requirements.

Furthermore, the UAE actively participates in and hosts international conferences on women’s issues. During its membership in the UN Human Rights Council, the country advocated for girls’ right to education, successfully passing a resolution calling for the elimination of obstacles to girls’ education worldwide.

These legal frameworks and international commitments reflect the UAE’s ongoing efforts to empower Emirati women and create a society where they can thrive and contribute to their fullest potential. By continuously strengthening its legal foundation for gender equality, the UAE is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.

Work-Life Balance Initiatives

Maternity Leave Policies

The UAE has implemented comprehensive maternity leave policies to support working mothers. Female employees in the federal government are entitled to 90 days of fully paid maternity leave. This leave can start up to 30 days before the expected delivery date. Additionally, mothers can combine their annual leave and unpaid leave with maternity leave, extending the total duration to 120 days.

In the private sector, the UAE Labor Law mandates a minimum of 45 days of fully paid maternity leave, followed by 15 days at half pay. Mothers may also take up to 45 consecutive or intermittent unpaid days if necessary. These policies aim to provide sufficient time for mothers to rest and care for their newborns.

Flexible Work Arrangements

To promote work-life balance, the UAE has introduced flexible work options for parents. The government has implemented a “half-time remote work” system for mothers with children under ten years old. This arrangement allows them to fulfill their duties while observing their children’s health and psychological growth.

For mothers caring for family members with special needs, a “full remote work” system is available. Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2020 outlines various remote work arrangements, including partial and fully remote options. These flexible arrangements help working mothers manage their professional responsibilities while attending to their family’s needs.

Childcare Support

The UAE has taken significant steps to support working parents with childcare responsibilities. The National Child Care Center (NCCC) project, launched in 2006, establishes nurseries at government entities employing more than 50 married women or collectively having more than 20 children. This initiative aims to enhance the standard of childcare and create employment opportunities for Emirati women.

Currently, there are 52 National Child Care Centers across more than 20 government entities. Some companies also provide childcare facilities in or near office spaces, further supporting working parents. These initiatives demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for working mothers and promoting their participation in the workforce.

Women’s Health and Wellbeing

Healthcare Access

The UAE government has made significant strides in ensuring comprehensive healthcare for Emirati women. It focuses on providing preventive and curative health programs tailored to women’s specific needs. These initiatives aim to enhance women’s overall well-being and address their unique health concerns. The government guarantees patients’ rights and responsibilities through a charter displayed in all clinics and hospitals. This commitment to transparency allows women to file complaints about improper service or malpractices to the respective health authorities, ensuring accountability in healthcare delivery.

Mental Health Support

Recognizing the importance of mental health, the UAE has implemented various support systems for women. The government promotes women’s mental well-being amidst societal changes, facilitating access to psychological treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation services. Several free and paid mental health support services are available. The Taalouf Initiative, launched by the Ministry of Community Development, offers free family counseling services through a confidential phone line (800623) and one-on-one sessions. The Emirates Foundation Mental Health Support line (800-HOPE) provides safe and confidential support to individuals affected by COVID-19. Additionally, the Istijaba Hotline (800 1717) offers mental health support in multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for diverse communities.

Sports and Physical Activities

The UAE has witnessed a remarkable increase in women’s participation in sports and physical activities. The government has developed public and private sports facilities that align with women’s sporting interests, ensuring their utilization in a manner that respects their needs and privacy. This commitment has led to a significant rise in women’s engagement in fitness activities. For instance, the number of women participating in the Dubai Fitness Challenge has increased by more than 130 percent, from 290,820 in 2017 to 676,500 in 2021. These initiatives have contributed to improved physical well-being scores for women in the UAE, surpassing global averages for both women and men.

The UAE’s Vision 2031 has a profound impact on the empowerment of Emirati women, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous society. By focusing on key areas such as work-life balance, women’s health, and leadership opportunities, the initiative aims to boost women’s participation across various sectors. The strengthening of legal frameworks to protect women’s rights and the implementation of supportive policies demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to create an environment where Emirati women can thrive and contribute fully.

As the UAE continues to make strides in gender equality, the future looks bright for Emirati women. The country’s efforts to enhance women’s access to healthcare, support their mental well-being, and encourage their participation in sports and physical activities contribute to their overall empowerment. These initiatives, coupled with the legal and societal support, position Emirati women to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future, driving innovation, and contributing to the UAE’s continued growth and success on the global stage.