Sharjah Launches Bold HR Reforms: Marriage Leave and Family Care at the Forefront
The changes come as part of a comprehensive decree-law issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, (HR) underscoring the emirate’s ongoing commitment to employee-centric governance
Sharjah, UAE — In a progressive move to modernize its public sector workforce policies, the Government of Sharjah has unveiled a series of human resources reforms aimed at enhancing employee welfare, flexibility, and inclusivity. The headline initiative: an eight-day paid marriage leave for government employees—a first-of-its-kind benefit in the emirate.
The changes come as part of a comprehensive decree-law issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, underscoring the emirate’s ongoing commitment to employee-centric governance.
A New Chapter in Employee Benefits
According to Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Human Resources Department, the decree was designed to “support the human and social fabric of government employees.” Speaking on the popular radio show Direct Line, he highlighted several key provisions:
- Marriage Leave: Government staff now receive eight paid days off for marriage, reinforcing work-life balance initiatives.
- Care Leave for Mothers: Female employees caring for sick or disabled newborns can access extended leave—renewable annually for up to three years.
- Flexible Work Models: A new framework for part-time employment expands options for government workers balancing personal responsibilities.
- Appointment Prioritization: UAE citizens and children of female citizens are given hiring priority, with contractual roles designated for non-citizens.
- Job Classification System: A structured A–B grade system standardizes roles and streamlines appointments across departments.
- Veterinary System Modernization: The law also quietly introduced updates to veterinary services, aimed at bolstering public health infrastructure.
A Vision Rooted in Family and Inclusion
These sweeping reforms align with the broader national movement across the UAE to position employee wellbeing as a driver of productivity and institutional resilience. In Sharjah’s case, the emphasis on family support—through marriage leave and long-term care options—reflects a deep-seated “family-first” ethos that continues to guide policy development.
As the emirate charts its path forward, these changes reinforce Sharjah’s stature as a leader in progressive labor governance—one that blends tradition with bold innovation. For further insights into the evolving workplace paradigm, visit
