Ajman Introduces New Leave Categories, Reduced Working Hours and Employee Benefits for Government Staff

The Government of Ajman has announced a new Human Resources Law that introduces additional leave categories, reduced working hours for eligible employees, and enhanced career benefits for government staff.

Issued under the directives of Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Law No. (4) of 2026 concerning Human Resources for the Government of Ajman will come into effect on September 1, 2026.

The new legislation applies to all civilian employees working in government entities across the emirate and extends to senior management employees where no separate employment provisions exist.

New Leave Categories Introduced

Under the new law, government employees will be entitled to several new types of leave, including:

• Family care leave
• Self-employment and entrepreneurship leave
• Leave for persons with disabilities
• Marriage leave

The measures are aimed at promoting employee wellbeing, family stability, and work-life balance while supporting broader social and economic development objectives.

Reduced Working Hours for Eligible Employees

The law also introduces reduced daily working hours for specific employee groups:

• Employees with disabilities: Two hours less per working day
• Pregnant employees: Two hours less per day in cases of fatigue or exhaustion, supported by an approved medical report
• Employees supporting five or more children under the age of 18: One hour less per working day

The initiative is designed to provide greater flexibility and support for employees with additional family or health-related responsibilities.

New Career Incentives

To strengthen government performance and create a more motivating work environment based on merit and competence, the law introduces several career development incentives.

Exceptional talents and high-performing employees may now receive promotions of up to three job grades, providing accelerated career progression opportunities within government entities.

In addition, the legislation establishes a new Good Service Award for Emirati employees in recognition of distinguished service and contributions to government work.

Supporting the ‘Year of the Family’

Officials said the law aligns with the objectives of the Year of the Family by supporting family cohesion, enhancing quality of life, and reinforcing the family’s role in community development.

Expanded Role for Human Resources Department

The legislation also outlines the responsibilities of the Ajman Government Human Resources Department, including reviewing and updating human resources legislation, assessing policy effectiveness, monitoring implementation across government entities, and providing technical support and advisory services.

The new framework reflects Ajman’s efforts to modernise public-sector employment policies while fostering a flexible, inclusive, and performance-driven work environment for government employees.