sharjah grants mosque imams and muezzins government employee status

Sharjah has made a landmark move by officially extending government employee status and benefits to mosque imams and muezzins, reaffirming the emirate’s commitment to acknowledging their essential contribution to religious and community life.

The directive was issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The decision reflects the emirate’s dedication to valuing individuals who play a central role in guiding communities, preserving religious values, and supporting social cohesion through mosques.

Under the new directive, imams and muezzins working in Sharjah mosques will be entitled to employment benefits equivalent to those enjoyed by government staff, including job security, financial stability, and access to official employment frameworks. The move is expected to enhance professional stability for mosque workers and ensure a dignified standard of living.

Officials said the initiative aims to acknowledge the essential contributions of mosque personnel, who not only lead prayers and deliver sermons but also serve as moral guides and sources of support within their communities. By formalizing their employment status, Sharjah reinforces the importance of mosques as pillars of spiritual and social life.

The decision has been widely welcomed, with observers describing it as a progressive step that strengthens the role of religious institutions while recognizing the dedication and responsibilities of those who serve them. It also aligns with Sharjah’s broader approach to social welfare and institutional development.

Sharjah has consistently introduced initiatives focused on education, culture, and community well-being, and this latest directive further highlights the emirate’s emphasis on inclusive policies that value service, responsibility, and social impact.