Sharjah imams and muezzins granted government employee status

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has directed that all imams and muezzins in mosques across the emirate be placed under the Sharjah government’s general staff system.

They will now receive the same benefits as government employees, as per the new directive.

These include eligibility for promotions, various allowances, health insurance coverage, and a work-nature allowance of AED 3,000.

His Highness has also ordered new arrangements allowing imams and muezzins to retain their accumulated leave balance if they choose not to take it.

In coordination with the Department of Islamic Affairs, they will instead receive the cash equivalent of unused leave.

The initiative recognises the vital role imams and muezzins play in serving mosques and the wider community.

Sharjah Ruler places Imams, Muezzins in gov's general staff#WamNews https://t.co/6GTwNtyAiP pic.twitter.com/M3yN8K0iMt

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) December 25, 2025