The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) announced the extension of the application period for Cycle 4 of the Parent-friendly Label (PFL) until 14 August 2026, giving semi-government, private, and third sector organisations across the UAE additional time to complete and submit their applications.
The extension follows strong interest from organizations across the UAE since the application window opened, reflecting growing momentum among employers to create more parent-friendly workplaces. Extending the deadline will allow more organisations to complete their applications and participate in the programme.
As the UAE marks the Year of the Family, the program's pilot expansion to government entities has also received a strong response from local and federal entities across the country. Launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Family, the pilot phase marks the first-time government entities have been invited to participate, expanding support for working parents in line with the UAE's national priorities for family wellbeing and stability.
Through previous cycles, the programme has supported organisations across the UAE in adopting parent-friendly policies and practices that improve employee wellbeing, strengthen talent attraction and retention, and help working parents balance their professional and family responsibilities.
These collective efforts have contributed to stronger families, more resilient communities, and a workplace culture where both employees and organisations can thrive. As the programme continues to expand, it is helping advance the UAE's vision of fostering parent-friendly workplaces, strengthening family wellbeing, and supporting sustainable social and economic development.
For more information and to apply to the programme, organisations can visit parentfriendlylabel.ae
