Flexibility is a top priority for mothers returning to work in the UAE, according to a recent survey by Beyond Careers. 76.8% of respondents rated flexibility as a key factor when considering job opportunities. Other sought-after benefits include positive work culture, compensation, and career progression. The survey, conducted on International Women’s Day, collected data from 115 mid-senior level female professionals in the UAE aged between 31 and 50. It revealed that 56.2% of respondents have experienced pressure or discrimination related to pregnancy or post-natal issues.
Rowen Nadia, the Founder of Beyond Careers, emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by mothers returning to the workforce. She highlighted the need for companies to implement people-centric policies to attract experienced senior talent. The survey also showcased the diversity of the UAE, with respondents from 29 different nationalities sharing their insights on various issues, including gender pay gap and women’s health awareness in the workplace.
The survey results indicated that 64.7% of women had delayed family planning due to a lack of support in their professional environment. This highlights the need for companies to provide better support for working mothers. The Return-to-Work Survey was conducted in partnership with the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai, focusing on empowering women and promoting gender balance in the UAE. Business leaders are encouraged to implement inclusive policies and support national targets for women empowerment.
To support women in their return to work journey, enterprises like Marc Ellis offer tailored career coaching services. These services aim to enhance women’s CVs, highlight their skills, and provide upskilling opportunities to bridge any gaps in employment history. By supporting women in their transition back to the workforce, these initiatives help them secure positions that value their experience while accommodating personal commitments. Overall, the UAE continues to make progress in advancing women’s empowerment, and initiatives like these play a crucial role in ensuring gender balance in the workplace.
