The Life of Women in Dubai
Introduction
In recent years, Dubai and the wider United Arab Emirates (UAE) have made significant strides in promoting gender equality and enhancing opportunities for women. Women in Dubai have access to education, career opportunities, and actively participate in public life.
The progressive stance of the UAE towards gender equality has led to numerous advancements, making it a promising place for women to live and work. This article explores various aspects of women’s lives in Dubai, dispelling myths and providing factual insights into their rights and opportunities.
Legal Rights and Workforce Participation
The UAE’s labor laws guarantee equal pay for women and men, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender parity. Women hold leadership positions across various key sectors.
Women at STRATA
A notable example is STRATA, a local aircraft manufacturer, where an impressive 86% of the workforce consists of women. This demonstrates the UAE’s dedication to empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Government Initiatives to Promote Women
Moreover, the UAE has implemented policies to ensure that women can thrive in the workplace. For instance, the government mandates equal employment opportunities and actively encourages companies to promote gender diversity. This supportive legal framework has enabled women to break barriers and achieve significant professional milestones.
Balancing Motherhood and Career
The UAE supports women in balancing motherhood and career through progressive maternity policies. Women are entitled to paid maternity leave, and postnatal support includes reduced working hours for breastfeeding. This holistic approach ensures that women do not have to choose between their career aspirations and family responsibilities.
Regulations on Maternity Leave
In the UAE, working women are entitled to 45 days of maternity leave with full pay, which can be taken both before and after childbirth. If needed, this leave can be extended, with pay adjusted accordingly. Additionally, women receive maternity benefits to ensure financial security during this period.
Maternity Leave in the Private Sector
Employees in the private sector are entitled to a total of 60 days of maternity leave. Of these, 45 days are fully paid, while the remaining 15 days are half-paid.
In cases of complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, an additional 45 days of unpaid leave can be taken with a medical certificate. Mothers of children with disabilities are granted an additional 30 days of fully paid leave, with the possibility of another 30 days of unpaid leave.
In the private sector, maternity leave is directly paid by the employer. This includes both the fully paid and half-paid leave periods. Employers must also ensure that the legally mandated nursing breaks are paid.
Maternity Leave in the Public Sector
Female employees are entitled to 60 days of fully paid maternity leave. Upon returning to work, they receive two hours of nursing breaks per day for four months, fully paid by the government.
In Abu Dhabi Female government employees are entitled to 90 days of fully paid maternity leave. They also have the right to two hours of nursing breaks per day for a year after childbirth, during which they receive full pay.
Female employees in Dubai’s public sector are entitled to 90 days of fully paid maternity leave, with the option to add unpaid leave, extending the total to 120 days. They also have the right to two hours of reduced working hours per day for a year after childbirth.
Workplace Support
After returning from maternity leave, women have the right to reduced working hours to facilitate breastfeeding and childcare. Many companies in Dubai further support working mothers by offering flexible work models, allowing them to adjust their working hours or work from home
Community Support
In addition to legal provisions, there is strong community support for working mothers in the UAE. Many companies and organizations provide childcare facilities or collaborate with external providers to ensure that children are well cared for during work hours.
This support alleviates the burden on mothers and provides them with the confidence that their children are in safe hands while they pursue their careers.
Financial Independence and Entrepreneurship
Women in Dubai have the autonomy to engage in financial activities such as starting businesses, acquiring property, and obtaining mortgages. Currently, 10% of private sector companies in the UAE are owned by women, and many women lead multi-billion-dollar projects.
This entrepreneurial spirit is nurtured by the UAE’s business-friendly environment, which provides ample support and resources for female entrepreneurs.
Government Support for Businesswomen
The government supports the establishment and management of businesses by women through business incubators and accelerator programs that offer financial assistance and training.
These initiatives aim to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among women, helping them turn their business ideas into successful enterprises.
Understanding local laws, particularly inheritance regulations, is crucial for women navigating financial transactions. The UAE has introduced reforms to ensure that women have equal rights in inheritance matters, further empowering them to manage their finances independently.
Political Participation
Since 2006, women in the UAE have had the right to participate in the Federal National Council (FNC). Today, women constitute 50% of FNC members, reflecting their growing influence in the political arena. These women play a crucial role in developing and implementing legislation that improves the lives of UAE citizens.
Additionally, women hold leadership roles in the government and are appointed as ambassadors, showcasing the country’s commitment to gender parity in governance.
The UAE’s efforts to involve women in politics are part of a broader strategy to promote gender equality at all levels of society. These efforts include leadership training programs and initiatives aimed at encouraging young women to pursue careers in politics and public service.
Marriage Regulations
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the legal minimum age for marriage is 18 years. Both parties must voluntarily consent to the marriage, and this consent must be witnessed before a court.
Divorce and Custody
Women in the UAE have the right to divorce, which is available to both nationals and expatriates. The divorce process begins with the submission of a petition to the family court. Initially, the courts seek an amicable resolution through mediation.
If an agreement cannot be reached, the court will make a decision. Child custody is also determined by the family court, with the primary consideration being the welfare of the children. Generally, custody is awarded to the mother if it is in the best interest of the child. Fathers typically have visitation rights and are obligated to provide financial support for their children.
Education and Career Opportunities
Women in the UAE have full access to education, with 77% attending higher education institutions and nearly 70% graduating from local universities. This high level of educational attainment translates into robust career prospects, with women excelling in various fields such as engineering, medicine, law, and business.
Educational Initiatives and Scholarships
Educational initiatives and scholarship programs support women in achieving their academic and career goals. These programs encourage women to pursue studies in various fields, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), thus enabling them to contribute significantly to the country’s economic and societal development.
Community and Social Support
Beyond legal measures, the community plays a vital role in supporting women. Networks, mentoring programs, and non-profit organizations provide women with opportunities to connect, learn, and support each other. These social structures enhance women’s confidence and skills, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Networks and Mentoring Programs
Networks and mentoring programs are instrumental in empowering women by offering guidance, support, and opportunities for professional development. These initiatives help women build their professional networks, gain valuable insights, and enhance their leadership skills.
