The Government of Ajman has approved a major overhaul of its public-sector employment framework, introducing new leave categories, reduced working hours, and enhanced employee benefits as part of efforts to create a more flexible and family-focused workplace.
- New leave categories introduced to support modern workforce needs
- Reduced working hours for parents, pregnant employees and people with disabilities
- New incentives reward top-performing government employees
- Ajman links HR reforms to UAE Year of the Family initiative
- Officials highlight focus on efficiency, flexibility and sustainability
- Part of a wider UAE trend toward workforce modernisation
Issued under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, Law No. (4) of 2026 concerning Human Resources for the Government of Ajman will come into force on September 1, 2026.
The legislation applies to all civilian employees working across Ajman government entities. It also covers senior management positions where no separate employment provisions exist.
New leave categories introduced to support modern workforce needs
A key feature of the new law is the introduction of several leave categories designed to address changing workforce expectations and family responsibilities.
The new provisions include:
- Family care leave
- Self-employment and entrepreneurship leave
- Leave for Persons with Disabilities
- Marriage leave
According to Ajman authorities, these measures aim to improve work-life balance while supporting employees at different stages of their personal and professional lives.
Reduced working hours for parents, pregnant employees and people with disabilities
The law also introduces shorter working hours for specific employee groups.
Employees with disabilities will receive a two-hour reduction in their daily working schedule. Similarly, pregnant employees may qualify for a two-hour reduction if they experience fatigue or exhaustion and submit an approved medical report.
In addition, employees responsible for five or more children under the age of 18 will be entitled to a one-hour reduction in daily working hours.
These measures align with broader government efforts to improve employee wellbeing and family stability.
New incentives reward top-performing government employees
Beyond leave benefits, the legislation introduces new career development incentives.
Under the revised framework, exceptional talents and high-performing employees may receive promotions of up to three job grades. Furthermore, the government has established a Good Service Award for Emirati employees to recognise outstanding contributions and long-term commitment.
Officials believe these incentives will strengthen employee engagement and improve government performance.
Ajman links HR reforms to UAE Year of the Family initiative
The government said the new law supports the UAE’s Year of the Family initiative and reinforces the role of families in building stronger communities.
Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council, said the legislation reflects the vision of Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, which places people at the centre of development.
He noted that the law aims to create a modern government work environment that enhances quality of life while supporting family cohesion.
According to Sheikh Ammar, the legislation represents a significant step forward in developing Ajman’s government sector and supports the objectives of Ajman Vision 2030.
Officials highlight focus on efficiency, flexibility and sustainability
Sheikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, the Ruler’s Representative for Administrative and Financial Affairs, said the law would help create a motivating and sustainable workplace while increasing the attractiveness of government employment.
Meanwhile, Rashid Abdulrahman Jebran Al Suwaidi, Director General of Ajman’s Human Resources Department, described the legislation as an integrated framework that balances efficiency, flexibility and sustainability.
Under the law, the Ajman Government Human Resources Department will oversee the review and update of HR regulations. The department will also monitor implementation across government entities, evaluate policy effectiveness and provide technical support to ensure compliance.
Part of a wider UAE trend toward workforce modernisation
The latest reforms reflect a broader trend across the UAE, where governments continue to modernise employment regulations to attract talent, boost productivity and meet evolving workforce expectations.
By introducing flexible leave policies, shorter working hours and performance-based incentives, Ajman aims to strengthen employee wellbeing while building a more efficient and future-ready public sector.
