Dubai Chamber of Commerce Advocates for Private Sector Involvement in 'Parent-Friendly Label' Programme

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce, under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, has teamed up with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) to host a seminar promoting the ‘Parent-friendly Label’ programme. The event aimed to boost private sector participation, fostering a healthy work-life balance. It saw participation from 110 representatives across 66 companies.

The 'Parent-friendly Label' programme, initiated by ECA, acknowledges organisations in the semi-governmental, private, and third sectors in the UAE that create supportive environments for working parents. To date, it has positively impacted over 148,000 employees and more than 50,000 children.

H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, highlighted the programme’s significance: “Promoting parent-friendly practices among businesses enhances community wellbeing, improves the work environment, and strengthens Dubai’s appeal as a global talent hub. The programme supports employee happiness, boosts institutional productivity, and contributes to the UAE’s economic and social development.”

H.E. Lootah added, “Dubai Chamber of Commerce's Centre for Responsible Business is dedicated to fostering responsible practices that enhance the private sector's competitiveness and community welfare.”

H.E. Sana Mohamed Suhail, Director General of ECA, noted, “With the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the programme has expanded nationwide. Our collaboration with Dubai Chambers aims to raise awareness and encourage more organisations to adopt supportive practices for working parents.”

The 'Parent-friendly Label' programme, designed according to international best practices, has shown significant benefits in workplace culture. ECA’s report, ‘The Future of Work: The Rise of Parent-friendly Workplaces in the UAE,’ highlights these benefits, including talent attraction and retention. Businesses can apply for the label via the ECA website: eca.gov.ae/parent-friendly-home.

By adopting flexible workplace policies, organisations empower working parents to balance their responsibilities, enhancing employee wellbeing and family bonds. This approach boosts employee participation, productivity, and retention, making workplaces more attractive to top talent. The Dubai Chamber's support for the programme underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and future-ready work environments