Emirati Mothers Can Take Up To 3-Year Work Break To Raise Their Kids; Here’s How!

Parenting is a full-time job, but Emirati mothers now have the option to balance both career and family life with greater ease. Thanks to Federal Law No. (57) of 2023, Emirati women can take up to three years off work to care for their children without losing out on essential end-of-service benefits. Here’s a breakdown of how this works and why it’s a game-changer.

A Work Break For Emirati Mothers That Keeps Benefits Intact

Mothers who choose to take this extended leave must continue to make monthly contributions to secure their gratuity. This ensures that when they eventually return to work or retire, they still receive a substantial end-of-service benefit. It’s a win-win situation—mothers get quality time with their children without compromising their financial future.

Why This Law Matters?

The UAE is committed to empowering women across all sectors, and this law is another step towards that goal. The government acknowledges the significant role women play in nation-building, both at home and in the workforce. By allowing flexibility for working mothers, the law ensures they remain financially independent while prioritising their families.

Special Benefits For Widowed Mothers

Widowed mothers receive additional support through pension benefits. If a woman loses her husband, she can merge her pension with his, providing her with financial stability. The law also redistributes pension shares, ensuring widows receive a larger portion to support their children.

• If a widow has children, she is entitled to 40% of the pension.
• Children receive 40% collectively (regardless of gender).
• Parents of the deceased receive 20%.

This redistribution acknowledges that a mother often becomes the primary caregiver and financial provider after the loss of a spouse.

Additional Pension Perks For Women

Emirati women have long enjoyed unique pension advantages. Under previous laws, they could purchase up to 10 years of service towards their pension, whereas men could only buy five.

The latest law further eases pension contributions for mothers. If an Emirati mother has five or more children, she qualifies for reduced age and contribution requirements. For example:

• Fifth and sixth child: Two years less in contributions, three years lower age requirement.
• Seventh child: 3.5 years less in contributions, four years lower age requirement.

Also Read: Emirati Mother’s Day: Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Pens Heart-Warming Poem Thanking Mothers Everywhere

Financial Security for Women of All Ages

Beyond working mothers, pension laws protect daughters, sisters, and widows. A daughter continues to receive pension payments unless she marries, takes a job, or gets divorced. Sons, however, stop receiving pensions at 21 (or 28 if studying). If a mother, sister, or daughter becomes widowed or divorced after the pensioner’s passing, they regain their share.

The law ensures daughters receive the same pension share as sons, debunking the myth that pensions follow inheritance rules. This move supports gender equality by giving women financial independence like their male counterparts.

So, if you’re an Emirati mother considering a career pause, rest assured that your future remains secure!

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