UAE lawmakers propose extending paid maternity leave to 98 days for government employees

Legislative discussions in the UAE have turned to a significant proposal that would extend paid maternity leave for government sector employees to a minimum of 98 days, according to recommendations made by the Federal National Council (FNC) in late January 2026.

The proposal has not yet been enacted into law, but is being positioned as part of a broader effort to modernise workplace policies and strengthen support for working mothers in the public sector.

Who the proposal applies to

The recommendation specifically targets federal government employees, and does not automatically apply to private sector workers at this stage. Lawmakers backing the proposal say the move would help align the UAE with international maternity leave standards, while improving maternal health outcomes and work–life balance.

Current maternity leave entitlements in the UAE

If approved, the proposed extension would build on existing maternity leave frameworks currently in place:

• Public sector: Generally 90 days of fully paid maternity leave

• Private sector: 60 days total, comprising 45 days at full pay and 15 days at half pay

• Abu Dhabi private sector: Emirati women are eligible for up to 90 days of paid leave under a dedicated government-supported programme

The proposed 98-day minimum would represent an enhancement rather than a reduction of existing benefits for public sector employees.

Additional measures recommended by the FNC

Alongside the maternity leave extension, the Federal National Council has put forward a series of complementary recommendations aimed at improving workplace inclusion and family support:

Flexible and remote work options
Priority access to remote or flexible work arrangements for:

• Mothers of children under 10

• Caregivers of elderly family members

• People of Determination

Private sector parity initiatives
Calls for incentive-based programmes encouraging private companies to adopt more family-friendly policies, helping narrow the benefits gap between sectors.

On-site nursery enforcement
Stronger enforcement of existing laws requiring large organisations to establish workplace nurseries, particularly in government institutions and major employers.

What happens next

As an FNC recommendation, the proposal will now undergo further review by relevant authorities before any formal legislative action is taken. If approved, the changes could mark a notable shift in the UAE’s public sector employment framework, reinforcing the country’s stated commitment to family wellbeing, workforce participation, and gender-inclusive policy reform.