Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Qualified working mothers in Abu Dhabi’s private sector companies will be able to avail of a 90-day maternity leave starting on September 1. The extended maternity leave applies to Emirati women working in the private sector and giving birth from September 1 onwards. New mothers who want to avail of the maternity leave need to apply for the leave within the first 30 days of their baby’s birth, provide a valid salary certificate, family book, and no-objection certificate from their employer. They can also apply for financial support complementary to their salary during their paid maternity leave, as long as they have the approval of their private-sector employer. Dr. Bushra Al Mulla, director general of Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (SSA),said the initiative is part of the Emirati Family Growth Support Programme, which will be implemented over five years. Under the UAE Labour Law, the maternity leave for women in private sector companies spans 60 days, with 45 days considered paid leave and 15 days half paid. ICA/Expat Media
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