Maternity Leave Support for Emirati Mothers in Abu Dhabi
Recent initiatives in Abu Dhabi are enhancing support for Emirati mothers working in the private sector. The Department of Community Development (DCD) has introduced a Maternity Leave Support Service, which provides financial assistance and home visit services to help new parents navigate the early stages of parenthood.
Maternity Leave Support Service Overview
The DCD’s Maternity Leave Support Service allows eligible Emirati women to take up to 90 days of paid maternity leave. To qualify, mothers must hold an Abu Dhabi Family Book, work in the private sector, and ensure their newborn has an Emirates ID. This initiative aims to provide new mothers with the necessary time to recover and bond with their infants.
Financial Assistance Details
Through the “Medeem” platform, the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority manages the financial aspects of the service. Eligible mothers can receive up to AED 15,000 per month, depending on specific criteria. Additionally, the Authority covers the monthly pension contributions for both the mother and her employer for an extra 30 days of unpaid leave, ensuring comprehensive support during this critical time.
Application Process
Participation in the Maternity Leave Support Service is optional for private sector employers. However, to benefit from the program, applications must be submitted via the TAMM platform or app within 30 days of the child’s birth. The DCD emphasizes that both parents must hold an Abu Dhabi Family Book for the application to be valid.
Home Visit Services for New Parents
In addition to maternity leave support, the DCD has launched a home visit service aimed at first-time parents. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Early Childhood Authority, provides emotional and practical guidance to help families adjust to their new roles. The specialized “Awnak” team delivers these services, focusing on promoting family bonding and ensuring parents feel confident in their caregiving abilities.
Eligibility for Home Visits
To qualify for the home visit service, the following criteria must be met:
– The child must be registered in a Family Book issued by Abu Dhabi. – The child must be the firstborn. – Applications can be submitted from early pregnancy until two weeks after birth. – Parents must complete a consent form and attend scheduled home visits.
The home visit program offers a range of support, including psychological and physical health assistance, postnatal care, and practical guidance on newborn care, such as hygiene, breastfeeding, and safe sleep practices.
Specialized Programs for Children of Determination
The DCD also provides tailored programs for children of determination, focusing on personalized care and family support. All caregivers involved in the home visits are required to have accredited medical qualifications and valid licenses from the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, ensuring high-quality care for families.
FAQs
What is the duration of paid maternity leave for Emirati mothers in Abu Dhabi?
Emirati mothers can take up to 90 days of paid maternity leave under the Maternity Leave Support Service.
How can parents apply for the home visit service?
Parents can apply for the home visit service through the Medeem digital platform, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria, including having a registered Family Book.
What types of support are provided during home visits?
Home visits offer psychological and physical health support, practical guidance on newborn care, and educational resources to help parents adjust to their new roles.
Conclusion
The DCD’s initiatives in Abu Dhabi represent a significant step forward in supporting Emirati mothers and families. With the introduction of paid maternity leave and comprehensive home visit services, new parents can access the resources they need to ensure a healthy and nurturing environment for their children. As these programs continue to evolve, they promise to enhance family stability and well-being in the community.
These initiatives align with broader efforts in the UAE to promote family welfare and support working parents. By providing financial assistance and practical resources, the DCD aims to alleviate some of the challenges faced by new families, particularly in balancing work and childcare responsibilities.
Furthermore, the emphasis on home visits reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and emotional support during the transition to parenthood. This holistic approach not only benefits mothers but also fosters a supportive environment for the entire family, contributing to the overall development and well-being of children in Abu Dhabi.
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