FAHR: “Entrepreneurship Leave for self-employment”… The Path to Entrepreneurship

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) supervises many strategic projects and initiatives, which constitute a qualitative addition to its confident and rapid pace towards the objectives of the Human Resources Strategy in the federal government and “We Are the UAE 2031” vision. They also enhance the UAE’s development process within the various social, economic, investment and development aspects.

One the distinguished and unique initiatives worldwide is the Entrepreneurship Leave for self-employment for the UAE national employees working in federal government. The initiative was approved by the Cabinet headed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, “may God protect him”, in July 2022, as part of the “Projects of the 50”. It came into effect in early 2023.

The Entrepreneurship Leave for self-employment aims to empower national talents and motivate them to embark on the world of entrepreneurship and explore its fields, which will reflect positively on the future of national economy.

The duration of the Entrepreneurship Leave granted to the employee in order to establish or manage their own economic project is one paid year, during which the employee receives half of the salary. However, the employee can combine the Entrepreneurship Leave for self-employment, leave without pay and annual leave.

The initiative constitutes a qualitative addition and a catalyst for the establishment of entrepreneurial projects and companies that contribute to strengthening the economy and support the country’s efforts to empower national competencies, build their capacities and enhance their skills in various fields. In order to assist the beneficiaries and provide the necessary support for their projects, FAHR signed several strategic partnerships with the most prominent business incubators in the UAE. It also facilitated the process of granting the leave by developing detailed guides for the steps to obtain it.

Details of the initiative can be viewed through the FAHR’s website.

Amna Al Mandoos