Working in the UAE comes with certain benefits, including different types of leave. Leave policies are important because they allow employees to rest, recover from illness, care for family, or take time off for personal reasons. Understanding your rights and company rules is essential to making the most of these benefits.
In this blog, we will explain the main types of leave available in the UAE, including annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave, along with other leave types that employees may be entitled to. We will also cover rules, entitlements, and tips for using leave effectively.
Annual Leave in UAE
Annual leave is the paid time off an employee receives every year. The UAE Labour Law clearly defines annual leave entitlements for employees.
Entitlement and Accrual
- Employees are entitled to 30 calendar days of annual leave per year after completing one year of service.
- During the first year, leave is calculated proportionally. For example, if you work 6 months, you are entitled to 15 days of leave.
Leave Pay
- Annual leave is fully paid, meaning you receive your regular salary during your time off.
- Companies often provide additional allowances in some cases, such as air tickets for employees or family.
Using Annual Leave
- Employers usually require employees to submit leave requests in advance.
- Companies can schedule leave based on business needs but must respect the employee’s entitlement.
- Annual leave cannot be replaced with cash unless the employee is leaving the company and has unused leave days.
Annual leave is important for mental health, rest, and productivity. Taking time off helps employees return to work refreshed and more effective.
Sick Leave in UAE
Sick leave allows employees to take time off when they are ill, injured, or need medical attention. The UAE Labour Law sets minimum requirements for sick leave.
Entitlement
- Employees are entitled to up to 90 days of sick leave per year.
- Sick leave is calculated after the employee has completed the probation period.
Payment During Sick Leave
- The first 15 days are fully paid.
- The next 30 days are paid at half salary.
- Any remaining days up to 90 are unpaid.
Proof of Illness
- Employers may require a medical certificate from a doctor.
- Sick leave protects employees from losing income while recovering from health issues.
Using sick leave responsibly is important. Employees should notify their employer as soon as possible and provide any required documentation.
Maternity Leave in UAE
Maternity leave is a key benefit for female employees. The UAE Labour Law provides clear rules on maternity leave entitlements.
Duration
- Female employees are entitled to 90 days of maternity leave.
- This leave can be taken before or after delivery, depending on the employee’s preference and health.
Pay During Maternity Leave
- The first 45 days are fully paid.
- The next 45 days are unpaid if the employee chooses to take the full 90 days.
- Companies may provide additional benefits, such as medical coverage or childcare support, depending on internal policies.
Eligibility
- Female employees must have completed at least one year of continuous service in most cases to be eligible for full pay.
- Probationary employees may have limited entitlements.
Maternity leave allows mothers to recover from childbirth and spend time with their newborn, supporting both health and family bonding.
Other Types of Leave in UAE
Beyond annual, sick, and maternity leave, UAE employees may also be entitled to other leave types:
Paternity Leave
- Fathers are entitled to 5 days of paid paternity leave for the birth of their child.
- The leave should be taken within a reasonable period after childbirth.
Hajj Leave
- Muslim employees are entitled to 30 days of unpaid leave to perform Hajj.
Compassionate Leave
- Some companies provide paid or unpaid leave in case of serious family emergencies.
- Policies vary by employer.
Study or Training Leave
- Some organizations offer leave for professional development or study purposes.
- This may be paid or unpaid depending on company policy.
Understanding these additional leave options helps employees plan life events without losing income or work stability.
How to Make the Most of Leave Policies
Knowing your leave rights is one part; using them wisely is another. Here are some tips for employees:
- Plan in Advance – Submit leave requests ahead of time whenever possible. This helps both you and your employer plan around your absence.
- Keep Track of Leave Balance – Check your accrued leave regularly to avoid losing entitlement.
- Provide Proper Documentation – For sick or maternity leave, ensure you provide all necessary certificates or proof.
- Communicate with Your Manager – Inform your manager about your leave plans clearly to avoid confusion or work disruption.
- Take Time to Rest – Use annual leave to recharge. Avoid working during vacation if possible.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers in the UAE must:
- Allow employees to take leave according to law.
- Pay salaries correctly during paid leave periods.
- Maintain records of leave balances.
- Avoid discrimination when approving leave requests.
Compliance with UAE Labour Law ensures employees’ rights are protected and contributes to a healthy, motivated workforce.
Common Questions About Leave in UAE
- Can I carry forward unused annual leave?
Yes, but many companies have policies limiting how much leave can be carried forward. Check your employment contract.
- Do probationary employees get leave?
Employees on probation may have limited leave entitlement. Usually, they earn leave proportionally.
- Can I take maternity leave before delivery?
Yes, employees can choose to take leave before or after childbirth.
- Is sick leave paid if I visit a private clinic?
Employers usually require a valid medical certificate; payment depends on company policy.
- Do part-time employees get the same leave?
Leave entitlement is often proportional to the hours worked. Check your contract for details.
Conclusion
Understanding leave policies in the UAE is essential for every employee. Annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave are the main entitlements, but additional leave types like paternity, Hajj, and compassionate leave may also apply. Knowing your rights helps you plan your life, stay healthy, and maintain a balance between work and personal needs.
Always check your employment contract and company policies, and use leave responsibly to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Proper leave management benefits both employees and employers, creating a productive and happy work environment.
