In the vibrant heart of the UAE, a powerful change is reshaping workplaces, turning them into supportive environments for working parents.
Angel Tesorero captures this shift engagingly in a recent Khaleej Times article, showing it’s not just about policy—it’s about building a community where employee loyalty soars and corporate identities thrive.
A compelling report from the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority brings this story to life, sharing insights from 10,000 employees across 75 companies. It highlights how companies are now valuing both family and work.
Parent-friendly workplaces offer flexible policies and supportive cultures that accommodate the needs of working parents. These include flexible working arrangements, welcoming environments for new parents, and support during family-related emergencies. Such policies not only aid employees but also set a standard that surpasses local parental leave laws.
Companies like Nabta Health in Dubai provide child-inclusive facilities, such as play areas, allowing parents to keep their children close during work hours. These amenities contribute to the recognition of companies like Nabta Health, Nestle Middle East, and LinkedIn by the Early Childhood Authority with the Parent-friendly Label.
The report also notes that companies prioritizing supportive environments for parents report increased employee advocacy and engagement, enhancing corporate performance.
Omar Alkhan from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Huda Al Hashimi, Deputy Minister of the Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs, both emphasize the importance of innovative, child-friendly workplace practices. These practices not only support current employees but also prepare for the needs of future workers, ensuring a sustainable work-life balance.
The movement towards integrating work and family life in the UAE is becoming a reality, driving significant improvements for employees and the broader community.
Linking to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The efforts to create more child-friendly workplaces in the UAE resonate with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Goal 5 (Gender Equality), and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By promoting work-life balance, these initiatives enhance family well-being, support gender equality, and foster sustainable economic growth, contributing to broader societal advancement towards these global goals.
