Falling ill while employed in the UAE? You are entitled to paid sick leave under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. Here’s how Sick Leave in UAE works, what pay you receive, and what your employer can and cannot do.
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Sick Leave Entitlement in UAE
After completing the probation period, private sector employees are entitled to 90 days of sick leave per year:
| Days | Pay |
|---|---|
| First 15 days | Full pay |
| Next 30 days | Half pay |
| Remaining 45 days | No pay |
📋 Official source: UAE Government Portal – Sick Leave
Requirements to Claim Sick Leave
- You must notify your employer of your illness within a reasonable time
- A medical certificate from a licensed doctor or hospital is required for paid sick leave
- The certificate must confirm inability to work
Can You Be Dismissed While on Sick Leave?
An employer cannot terminate an employee while on sick leave, unless the 90-day sick leave entitlement has been exhausted. Even then, full end-of-service benefits must be paid.
Does Sick Leave Affect Gratuity?
Paid sick leave counts as part of your continuous service. Unpaid sick leave beyond the 90-day entitlement does not break service continuity but may not count toward gratuity accrual depending on your contract.
Sick Leave During Probation
Sick leave entitlement begins after the probation period is completed. During probation, sick leave is at the employer’s discretion.
FAQs
Can my employer deduct salary for the first day of sick leave?
No. The first 15 days of sick leave in a year are at full pay, provided you submit a valid medical certificate.
Does my annual leave balance get used during sick leave?
No. Sick leave and annual leave are separate entitlements. Your employer cannot substitute sick leave with annual leave without your consent.
Know your full employment rights in the UAE. Use our UAE Gratuity Calculator and Leave Encashment Calculator to plan your finances.