UAE Maternity Leave Law 2026
UAE Maternity Leave Law 2026
UAE maternity leave entitlements changed under the 2022 labour law amendments, with provisions that continue evolving through 2026. This guide covers current entitlements, employer obligations, and protections for working mothers.
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Legal Framework and Requirements
The UAE Labour Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, as amended) provides the comprehensive framework governing employment relationships. Recent amendments continue strengthening employee protections whilst maintaining labour market flexibility.
Regulatory Compliance
Employers must comply with federal labour law and emirate-specific regulations. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) enforces compliance and mediates disputes.
Key Employee Protections
Employees enjoy protected rights including minimum wage provisions, maximum working hours, mandatory health insurance, workplace safety standards, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Minimum Standards
Federal minimum wage applies to all workers, currently standing at AED 2,176 monthly. Employers must provide salary payments through bank transfer by the fifth of each month. Standard working week comprises 48 hours maximum, with Friday as mandatory rest day.
Enforcement and Penalties
MOHRE conducts workplace inspections and investigates complaints. Non-compliance results in significant penalties, ranging from fines to visa sponsorship withdrawal. Organisations must maintain updated employment contracts in Arabic and ensure safe working conditions.
UAE Parental Leave Entitlements 2026
| Leave Type | Duration | Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity Leave (full pay) | 45 days | 100% salary |
| Maternity Leave (half pay) | 15 days | 50% salary |
| Extended Maternity (illness-related) | Up to 45 additional days | Unpaid (with medical certificate) |
| Paternity Leave | 5 working days | 100% salary |
| Nursing Breaks | 2 breaks of 30 minutes daily | Paid (for 6 months after delivery) |
UAE Parental Leave Entitlements 2026
| Leave Type | Duration | Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity Leave (full pay) | 45 days | 100% salary |
| Maternity Leave (half pay) | 15 days | 50% salary |
| Extended Maternity (illness-related) | Up to 45 additional days | Unpaid (with medical certificate) |
| Paternity Leave | 5 working days | 100% salary |
| Nursing Breaks | 2 breaks of 30 minutes daily | Paid (for 6 months after delivery) |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many days of maternity leave are UAE employees entitled to?
Female employees are entitled to 60 days of maternity leave: 45 days at full pay and 15 days at half pay. Additional unpaid leave of up to 45 days is available for pregnancy or childbirth-related illness with medical documentation.
Can an employer terminate a woman during maternity leave in the UAE?
No. Termination during maternity leave or because of pregnancy is unlawful under UAE labour law. Employees dismissed in violation of this protection can claim compensation through MOHRE dispute resolution.
Is there paternity leave in the UAE?
Yes. UAE labour law provides five working days of paid paternity leave within the first six months of the child’s birth. This applies to private sector employees under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021.
