Abu dhabi: The World Bank has recognized the United Arab Emirates as a leading example in human development and the formulation of policies that empower women and youth, emphasizing the country’s efforts in integrating work-life balance and enhancing women’s workforce participation.
According to Emirates News Agency, Fadia Saadah, Regional Director for Human Development in the Middle East and North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan Region at the World Bank, highlighted the UAE’s strides in creating an integrated work-life balance model. This achievement has been largely attributed to labour law reforms and substantial investments in early childhood development and childcare.
Speaking to WAM after the release of the World Bank’s new flagship report ‘Embracing and Shaping Change: Human Development for a Middle East and North Africa Region in Transition’, Saadah detailed how the UAE’s 2022 labour law reforms have facilitated part-time, temporary, remote, and shared work opportunities, thereby broadening prospects for women and youth. Furthermore, the introduction of enhanced parental leave provisions in 2021 has played a crucial role in supporting work-life balance and boosting women’s participation in the workforce.
Saadah also underscored the UAE’s investments in early childhood development and affordable childcare, which are crucial in empowering women and equipping youth with vital skills. She pointed out the benefits other MENA countries could reap from the UAE’s flexible labour mobility policies, which include adaptable visa options such as the Golden and Green Visas for skilled professionals, investors, freelancers, and remote workers.
The UAE’s commitment to labour protection through unemployment insurance, wage protection, and reinforced recruitment regulations was also highlighted. Saadah suggested that adopting similar policies across the region could help in attracting and retaining talent, supporting economic diversification, and driving innovation.
According to the World Bank report, while human capital in the MENA region has seen significant improvements in recent years, further advancements are essential for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth. The report delves into how ageing populations, climate change, and technological advancements are influencing the region’s future, urging governments to continue investing in ‘future-fit’ human development strategies.
Saadah advised that GCC countries prioritize ageing and digitalisation, middle-income countries focus on fiscal management, and lower-income or fragile countries concentrate on preserving human capital and institutions. With sustained commitment, the MENA region stands ready to transform emerging challenges into opportunities for sustainable and inclusive growth, paving the way for a promising future for all.