Sharjah has announced a significant policy shift affecting religious staff across the emirate. All imams and muezzins serving in mosques will now be brought under the Sharjah government’s general staff system, granting them the same employment benefits as other government employees.
The directive, issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, ensures that mosque staff are formally integrated into the government workforce framework. As a result, imams and muezzins will become eligible for promotions, structured career progression, and a range of government allowances.
Under the new arrangement, they will also receive comprehensive health insurance coverage. In addition, a work-nature allowance of AED 3,000 has been introduced, recognising the unique responsibilities associated with their roles.
The policy also introduces flexibility around leave management. Imams and muezzins will be allowed to retain their accumulated leave balances if they choose not to avail them. In coordination with the Department of Islamic Affairs, those opting not to take their leave will instead receive the monetary value of unused days, offering an alternative form of benefit.
The move is being seen as an effort to formally acknowledge the social and community responsibilities carried out by mosque personnel. By aligning their employment terms with those of government staff, the Sharjah government aims to provide greater financial stability, professional recognition, and long-term security to imams and muezzins.
The initiative reflects a broader approach to strengthening institutional support for religious services while ensuring equitable employment practices across public roles in the emirate.
