Dubai launches new family program with 10-day paid marriage leave, flexible work policies

Dubai: Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the ‘Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme.’  

The programme aims to support family growth, stability, and wellbeing in Dubai by offering financial, social, and educational support to strengthen community values and promote work-life balance. This initiative reflects Her Highness's dedication to empowering Emirati families and fostering their stability and growth.  

Building a cohesive and happy society

Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum stated that the programme reflects HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision to strengthen family stability and consolidate the family’s role as the nucleus of a cohesive society. It aligns with national priorities to empower Emirati families, uphold their values, and prepare them for future challenges.

“Strong families are essential to create a better future. We are committed to fulfilling the aspirations of every Emirati family in Dubai, ensuring their lasting happiness and stability while empowering them to nurture future generations who can shape a brighter tomorrow,” she added.

Comprehensive support package

The ‘Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme’ introduces a comprehensive support package for Emirati families, including:

• Wedding support

• Housing assistance

• Flexible work policies

• Social, financial, and housing awareness and education programmes

The programme aligns with the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to foster happy, connected, and value-driven families and double the number of Emirati families in the emirate by 2033.

Phase one initiatives:

The first phase of the programme includes several key initiatives:

• Flexible Work Benefits (in collaboration with the Dubai Government Human Resources Department):

  • 10-day paid marriage leave for government sector employees in Dubai.  

  • ‘Remote work’ option on Fridays for mothers during the first year after maternity leave.

• Training Initiatives:

  • ‘Start it Right’ marital awareness programme: Equips young people with essential life planning skills and fosters social and emotional tools for building happy families. To date, 1,013 individuals have benefited from the program, with 208 receiving financial support.  

  • Financial literacy course: Provides soon-to-be-married couples with financial planning knowledge and emphasizes saving, budgeting, and avoiding debt.

  • ‘How to Build Your Home’ programme (in collaboration with the New Economy Academy): Equips young people with the skills and knowledge needed to build their homes efficiently and economically.

These benefits apply to new members of the Dubai Weddings programme from January 4, 2025. Those wishing to avail themselves of housing benefits can apply within one year of benefiting from the Dubai Weddings programme.

Future phases of the programme will expand its scope by introducing new packages and benefits in education, health, and other social services.

All Emirati citizens in Dubai planning to marry (provided the prospective bride is an Emirati citizen) can register for the Dubai Weddings programme through the ‘Emirati’ platform on the Dubai Now app. Alternatively, individuals can register or learn more by visiting the Community Development Authority's website or contacting the Authority at 800 2121.