Long before the 2020 pandemic made remote work a global necessity, several employees—both men and women—had been calling for greater flexibility in how and where they work. This demand is closely tied to the challenges individuals face in balancing professional obligations and caregiving roles. However, it is important to note that this request is not a recent phenomenon; rather, it is part of a global movement for maternity rights that originated over a century ago.
As more women entered and enriched the workforce, significant policies were enacted. In 1883, Germany became the first country to establish a paid maternity leave law. Since then, nations worldwide have adopted similar policies, reflecting a global acknowledgment of caregiving as both a societal and economic priority.
Building on this momentum, the UAE has consistently enhanced its support for working mothers, demonstrating a national commitment to inclusive and progressive workplace policies for women. In 2016, the UAE Federal Labour Law was amended to provide 45 days of fully paid maternity leave for women in the private sector, with provisions for an additional 15 days at half pay and extended leave in cases of difficult births, illness, or disability of the child, subject to specific conditions.
For years, government-led reforms have reflected global trends, positioning employee well-being as a key priority. Now, it is the private sector that has taken the lead in implementing structural workplace reforms, placing emphasis on human capital, wellness, flexibility, and inclusivity within corporate structure.
In this context, enhanced maternity support stands out as a significant measure that directly aligns with organisational values and long-term vision. When designed thoughtfully, such support can empower women to achieve their professional goals and contribute to economic growth that benefits both society and organizations. According to the World Bank, if women in the region participate in the workforce at the same rate as men, the overall productivity of the nation would increase significantly, potentially driving up GDP growth by an average of 20 percent annually.
Maternity policies play a crucial role in achieving gender equality in the workplace, allowing women to balance their careers and personal lives without sacrificing either. In the competitive job market of the UAE, employee benefits have become essential for attracting top talent.
Providing extended maternity leave demonstrates a company’s care, commitment, and respect for its employees, which can lead to long-term loyalty. Organizations that implement strong parental leave policies often experience lower attrition rates and reduced recruitment costs. Contrary to outdated beliefs, support for maternity does not hinder productivity; rather, it enhances it. Employees who feel supported during significant life phases are more likely to return to work focused, motivated, and engaged.
In the UAE, Sobha Realty has emerged as a leader by introducing a pioneering maternity leave policy with a wide variety of benefits, including:
This step also reinforces the company’s growing reputation as an employer of choice, demonstrated by its recent two-time certification as a Great Place to Work®.
As more companies strive to redefine what it means to be a truly modern employer, enhanced maternity support is emerging as a genuine test of leadership, reflecting how deeply an organization values its people. By implementing such policies, companies like Sobha Realty send a clear message that business excellence must go hand in hand with excellence in care.
Extending maternity support beyond compliance is no longer a “nice-to-have.” It is the new gold standard for employers aiming to build resilient, inclusive, and high-performing teams. From talent retention and workplace culture to long-term productivity, the benefits are clear. With industry leaders like Sobha Realty setting a new benchmark in the region, the momentum for change is only growing.
In the future of work, those who show the most care will achieve the greatest success.
Enhanced maternity policies are increasingly viewed as a key indicator of employer excellence for several reasons. They demonstrate how much an organization values its employees. By providing support that goes beyond legal requirements, these policies reflect genuine care for employees, which helps to foster loyalty, enhance productivity, and promote inclusivity in the workplace. These factors are crucial in today’s talent-driven market.
Extended maternity leave helps attract and retain top talent, boosts employee engagement and productivity, supports gender equity, and builds a more sustainable and loyal workforce by reducing turnover and rehiring costs.
Sobha Realty recently introduced a groundbreaking maternity policy offering 120 days of fully paid leave—double the UAE’s legal requirement—while retaining all employment benefits. It’s the first real estate developer in the country to implement such a comprehensive framework.
Thank you for visiting our site. Want to be a part of Sobha's talent squad? Visit our Careers page.
I am a new channel partner
Register as Channel Partner
I am an existing channel partner
Visit our Channel Partner page.
