UAE mums hope for reduced office hours, remote work in upcoming policies for families

From work-life balance concerns to rising living costs, parenthood in today's day and age comes with its own set of challenges.

Many mothers — who are citing these concerns as factors that prevent them from having bigger families — are now hopeful new government initiatives can help.

Recently, the UAE introduced a slew of initiatives to support families. These include establishing the Ministry for Family Affairs, extended maternity leave in Abu Dhabi, and a special programme in Dubai.

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Dubai resident Fatima Al Zarouni said long work hours discouraged many women from having more children. She called on private sector companies to reduce working hours for mothers, allow remote work, and increase maternity leave.

While public sector employees can get up to 90 days off for maternity leave, most private sector workers get just 60 days. “Not every mother can rely on the help of domestic workers. The responsibilities of cooking, organising, and working for the children require immense effort,” said Fatima.

Many families live in rented homes, she added, and with rising living costs, the pressure on mothers intensifies.

She advocates for providing financial and social support to families. “The support for new families has to increase as the cost of living is much higher after marriage.”

Amina Al Alalawi from Abu Dhabi believes families can no longer be sustained in single-income households — and as mothers enter the workforce, it becomes difficult to juggle their children’s needs and a career.

“When work ends at 4pm or 5pm and I get home, I have no energy left to teach my children or spend time with them," Amina said.

For some, the dream of expanding their families often feels distant as they struggle with the pressures of life. “The situation stresses me out,” said Umm Saif, who recently became a mother.

The Abu Dhabi resident added that working in the private sector while raising her young child leaves her with limited time for bonding or rest.

Like many other mothers, she faces the daunting challenge of juggling work, childcare, and household responsibilities. “But I want to help my husband and family monetarily."

Jumana Suleiman Al Naqbi from Ras Al Khaimah said changing societal perceptions was the biggest challenge. “The cost of living and the changing mindset of the new generation are the other challenges.”

New policies, possible initiatives

An expert has called for implementing pre-marital educational initiatives and advocates.

Dr Fayeza Alrais, a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology, and high-risk pregnancy and fetal medicine, also proposed remote work during a woman's ovulation period to reduce work-related stress, which could positively impact pregnancy rates.

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