UAE launches world’s first employment package for productive families with salary and insurance
The General Women’s Union (GWU) has unveiled the world’s first official employment programme for productive families, offering participants a fixed monthly salary, insurance, and comprehensive job benefits. The initiative is designed to strengthen the economic and social empowerment of Emirati women, while enhancing their contributions to the national economy.
Employment status and benefits
Under the programme, productive families are granted official employee status, receiving a monthly salary in addition to a share of profits generated from the sale of their products through the GWU’s Centre for Traditional Industries and Handicrafts. Participants will also be registered with the Abu Dhabi Pension Fund, ensuring insurance coverage and long-term financial security.
Unlike traditional employment, the model provides flexibility, requiring participants to deliver a specified number of products each week according to agreed standards, without the need for fixed working hours or physical attendance.
Supporting women’s empowerment
The initiative is part of the “Mother of the Nation’s 50:50 Vision” and reflects the directives of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to reinforce Emirati women’s role in development.
Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the GWU, said: “This initiative not only offers a stable source of income to families, but it also opens new pathways for institutional and sustainable contributions to the national economy. It embodies the deep confidence of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in the capabilities of Emirati women and her ongoing commitment to their empowerment.”
Eng. Ghalia Ali Al Mannai, Head of Strategic and Development Affairs at the GWU, highlighted that the employment model ensures legal and professional protections, including pension registration, while allowing participants to work flexibly from home.
National impact
By integrating productive families into the labour market through structured employment, the programme seeks to provide financial stability, preserve cultural traditions, and promote entrepreneurship. It also strengthens the UAE’s position as a global leader in innovative approaches to women’s empowerment and sustainable family development.
