SHARJAH: Sharjah has raised the minimum decent-living standard for government employees to AED20,000 ($5,450) a month, in a package that will also increase support for thousands of families and retirees.
The measures, effective from September, were approved by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a member of the UAE Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah.
The package carries an annual cost of more than AED1.187 billion and will benefit 17,776 government employees.
Support will also be increased for 6,652 families receiving social assistance, 2,251 Sharjah government retirees and 5,300 citizens who retired from outside the Sharjah government.
Speaking on Sharjah’s Direct Line programme, Sheikh Sultan said the government had prioritised citizens most in need while also reviewing possible increases for higher-paid employees.
“No employee will be left without a salary increase, including those on high salaries,” he said.
He also urged citizens to avoid unnecessary borrowing and save where possible, saying rising prices had increased pressure on household finances.
