New mums returning to work want flexibility

UAE working mothers

Mothers returning to the workforce in the UAE are prioritizing flexibility above all else, according to recent survey findings released by UAE employment platform Beyond Careers. The survey, conducted on International Women’s Day 2024, drew responses from 115 mid-senior level female professionals residing in the UAE, aged between 31 and 50 years. Flexibility emerged as the top priority, with 76.8% of respondents ranking it 5 out of 5 on the importance scale.

Apart from flexibility, the survey highlighted positive work culture, compensation, and career progression as the most sought-after benefits by returning mothers. However, a significant portion of respondents, 56.2%, also revealed experiencing pressure, harassment, or being forced to leave a job due to pregnancy or pre- and post-natal issues.

Rowen Nadia, Founder of Beyond Careers, emphasized the need to address challenges faced by mothers returning to work, advocating for conversations on inclusion and addressing barriers such as the broken rung. Nadia suggested that forward-thinking companies could strengthen their corporate reputation and access experienced senior talent by implementing people-centric systems and policies that support flexibility.

The survey showcased the diversity of the UAE, with 29 nationalities represented among respondents, sharing insights on various issues from pay-gap perceptions to the importance of raising awareness about women’s health in the workplace.

Notably, 64.7% of respondents admitted to being affected by or delaying family planning due to a lack of support in their professional environment, underscoring the need for more supportive workplace policies.

Katy Holmes, CEO of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai, highlighted two rising scenarios in Dubai: highly experienced women seeking to return to work and company founders seeking senior counsel on a part-time basis. This highlights the potential for mutually beneficial arrangements between experienced professionals and businesses in need of expertise.

While the UAE has made significant strides in advancing women’s empowerment and gender balance, there is still progress to be made. Business leaders are encouraged to support national targets and commitments by implementing people-centric systems and policies that promote gender equality and support working mothers.

Enterprises like Marc Ellis offer tailored career coaching services aimed at enhancing the CVs of women returning to work, providing upskilling and reskilling opportunities to ease their transition back into the workforce. Aws Ismail from Marc Ellis emphasized the importance of valuing women’s experience and accommodating their personal commitments to facilitate their successful reintegration into the workforce.