Paid leave rules in the UAE

Employers must be aware of regulations regarding the array of parental leave in the UAE to ensure compliance with labour laws and support employees during significant life events. The UAE has structured leave policies for both mothers and fathers, reflecting progressive workplace policies that aim to support work-life balance and family well-being.

Maternity leave in the UAE

Under the UAE’s maternity leave law, female employees are entitled to 60 days of maternity leave, structured as follows:

• 45 days of fully paid maternity leave.
  
• 15 days at half paid maternity leave.
  

Employees may begin their maternity leave in the UAE before or after childbirth. In cases of medical complications related to pregnancy or delivery, an additional unpaid leave of up to 45 days may be granted upon submission of a medical certificate. Furthermore, if a newborn has a disability or illness, the mother is entitled to an extra 30 days of paid leave, extendable by another 30 days unpaid.

For example, if a female employee gives birth prematurely and requires extended medical care, she can apply for the additional 45-day unpaid leave with medical documentation. Similarly, a mother of a newborn with a diagnosed medical condition may avail the additional paid and unpaid leave provisions to ensure the child receives adequate care.

After returning to work, new mothers are allowed two paid nursing breaks per day, not exceeding one hour in total, for six months following childbirth. This provision allows working mothers to balance their professional and parental responsibilities.

Employers must ensure that maternity leave is granted fairly, and it is prohibited to terminate employment due to pregnancy or maternity-related absence. For instance, if a female employee is dismissed while on maternity leave without valid justification, the employer may face legal consequences under UAE labour law.

Paternity leave in the UAE

Fathers in the UAE are entitled to paternity leave in the UAE, which provides five working days of paid leave. This leave must be taken within six months of the child’s birth.

The UAE is the first Arab country to mandate paternity leave for private sector employees, emphasising the country’s progressive approach to workplace rights. For example, a father working in the private sector who welcomes a newborn can take five consecutive or separate days off within the first six months to support his spouse and bond with the child.

While there is no additional paternity leave in the UAE specific for expats, employers should ensure that all eligible employees are aware of their entitlements and encouraged to utilise them.

UAE’s parental leave

Private sector employees are also entitled to five days of parental leave in the UAE. This applies to both mothers and fathers and must be used before the child reaches six months of age. Employees must provide proof of the child’s birth when requesting this leave.

For example, a working mother who has exhausted her maternity leave may use parental leave days to extend her time with the newborn before returning to work. Similarly, a father who has already taken his paternity leave may use parental leave to assist with childcare responsibilities.

Employers in the UAE should have a clear maternity leave policy and paternity leave provisions to support their workforce while remaining compliant with labour laws. By fostering a supportive work environment, businesses can enhance employee retention and overall productivity. A company with a well-defined parental leave policy may see improved employee morale and loyalty, contributing to a more engaged and committed workforce.