Expecting a baby while working in the UAE? The New UAE Labor Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) significantly improved maternity leave rights for private sector employees. Here is everything you need to know about UAE Maternity Leave.
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Maternity Leave Entitlement
Female employees in the UAE private sector are entitled to 60 calendar days of maternity leave:
- First 45 days: Full pay
- Next 15 days: Half pay
📋 Official source: UAE Government Portal – Maternity Leave
Additional Leave for Medical Complications
If a medical complication arises during or after pregnancy, an employee may take an additional 45 days of unpaid leave (certified by a medical report). This is separate from sick leave.
Paternity Leave
Under the new law, fathers in the private sector are entitled to 5 working days of paid paternity leave, to be taken within 6 months of the child’s birth.
Is There a Minimum Service Requirement?
No minimum service period is required to qualify for maternity leave. Even new employees are entitled to the full 60-day entitlement.
Does Maternity Leave Count Toward Service & Gratuity?
Yes. Paid maternity leave is counted as part of your continuous service period. It does not break your service or reduce your gratuity calculation.
Can You Be Dismissed During Maternity Leave?
No. Dismissal during maternity leave is explicitly prohibited under UAE Labour Law. If this happens, file an immediate complaint with MOHRE.
FAQs
Can maternity leave be extended?
Yes — with a medical certificate, an additional 45 days of unpaid leave can be taken. After that, the employee may use any accrued annual leave.
What if the baby is stillborn?
The full 60-day maternity leave still applies if the baby is born after 6 months of pregnancy.
Planning your finances around a career break? Our UAE Gratuity Calculator helps you understand your full end-of-service entitlements.