The UAE has taken significant strides to enhance workplace protections and benefits for pregnant employees. These reforms aim to support working mothers, promote gender equality, and ensure a healthier work-life balance. Here’s an in-depth look at the latest maternity leave entitlements and legal safeguards every employee and employer should know.
Maternity Leave Entitlements in the UAE (2025)
Under the current UAE Labour Law, female employees are entitled to:
- 60 days of maternity leave, comprising:
- 45 days at full pay
- 15 days at half pay
- Eligibility: This entitlement applies regardless of the employee’s length of service. Even those with less than one year of service are eligible for maternity leave, though the compensation may vary.
- Commencement: Maternity leave can begin up to 30 days before the expected delivery date, provided a medical certificate is submitted.
Additional Leave Provisions
In certain circumstances, the law provides for extended leave:
- Pregnancy or childbirth complications: An additional 45 days of unpaid leave may be granted upon submission of a medical certificate.
- Birth of a sick or disabled child: Mothers are entitled to an extra 30 days of fully paid leave, with the possibility of an additional 30 days of unpaid leave, subject to medical documentation.
Nursing Breaks
Upon returning to work, new mothers are entitled to:
- Two daily breaks, each lasting up to 30 minutes, for nursing their child. These breaks are fully paid and are available for six months following the child’s birth.
Parental Leave for Fathers
The UAE Labour Law also recognizes the role of fathers:
5 days of paid parental leave: Available to male employees, to be taken within six months of the child’s birth.
Protections Against Discrimination and Termination
The law provides robust protections for pregnant employees:
- Non-discrimination: Employers are prohibited from discriminating against female employees due to pregnancy.
- Protection from termination: It’s unlawful to terminate or issue a notice of termination to a female employee because of her pregnancy, maternity leave, or related absences.
Sector-Specific Provisions
While the above provisions apply broadly, certain emirates have additional regulations:
- Federal Government Employees: Entitled to 90 days of fully paid maternity leave. Post-return, they receive 2 hours of reduced working hours daily for six months to nurse their child.
- Dubai Government Employees: Eligible for 90 days of maternity leave, with the option to start leave up to 30 days before the expected delivery date. They may also combine maternity leave with annual and unpaid leave, totaling up to 120 days.
The UAE’s updated Labour Law reflects a progressive approach to supporting working parents. By understanding these rights and responsibilities, both employees and employers can foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment.
