A mixed-methods cross-sectional survey (Nov 2024–Feb 2025) examined public knowledge of midwives' professional competencies and workplaces among 208 adults residing in the UAE, and identified demographic factors associated with knowledge level.
Overall knowledge was good (mean 77.1 ± 16.2%); 85.6% recognised midwives work in the UAE, but gaps persisted around midwives' autonomy in physiological birth and prescribing authority. Higher knowledge was independently associated with female gender, age 26–39 years, postgraduate education, healthcare background, and prior exposure to midwifery care (all p < 0.05).
Sample was heavily female (89.9%) and recruited via social media/WhatsApp/Instagram, limiting generalisability to men and those with lower digital access; self-selection bias is likely. The cross-sectional design prevents causal inference.
Targeted public education campaigns—particularly reaching men and those without healthcare backgrounds—could address misconceptions about midwives' scope of practice and autonomy, supporting uptake of midwifery-led care models in the UAE.
