Maternity & Parental Leave
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
UAE law provides maternity, paternity, and parental leave for private-sector workers:
- Maternity leave: Female employees get 60 days — the first 45 days at full pay and the next 15 days at half pay.
- Extended maternity: If the mother or baby has health complications, she can take an additional 45 days unpaid (with a medical certificate).
- Paternity leave: Fathers get 5 working days of paid leave within the first 6 months after the child's birth.
- Nursing breaks: After returning to work, mothers are entitled to two paid breaks per day (30 minutes each or one hour combined) for nursing, for up to 6 months after delivery.
- Job protection: It is illegal to fire a woman because of pregnancy or while she is on maternity leave.
When does it apply?
- You work in the private sector and have completed your probation period.
- Maternity leave can start up to 30 days before the expected delivery date.
- Paternity leave is available from the date of the child's birth and must be taken within 6 months.
What should you do?
- Notify your employer in writing about your pregnancy and expected delivery date as early as possible.
- Provide a medical certificate from a licensed doctor confirming the pregnancy and expected delivery date.
- For paternity leave, submit a written request with the child's birth certificate.
- If your employer denies your leave or fires you, file a complaint with MOHRE immediately.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not resign under pressure — if your employer pressures you to resign because of pregnancy, this is illegal and you should report it.
- Do not forget to use your nursing breaks — they are a legal right for 6 months after delivery.
- Do not wait to file a complaint — if your maternity rights are violated, act quickly.
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