Expectant mothers in the UAE often worry about their maternity leave rights. Will they get enough time with their newborn? What about their job security? The good news is that the UAE offers comprehensive maternity benefits that protect both mother and child.
This guide breaks down exactly how long maternity leave lasts in the UAE, what benefits you can expect, and how to make the most of your time off.
You’ll learn everything from basic entitlements to special circumstances that might extend your leave.
Maternity Leave in the UAE: A Legal Snapshot
Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, the UAE government strengthened maternity protections for female employees across both the private and public sectors.
The law applies to all women working in the UAE, regardless of their employment type, full-time, part-time, temporary, or contract-based, as long as they are officially registered with their employer and have completed the minimum service duration (where applicable).
This legislation ensures that eligible employees receive paid maternity leave, extended unpaid leave in certain medical situations, and additional benefits like nursing breaks.
The law reflects the UAE’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment, particularly for working mothers, and aligns with global standards of labor protection.
Maternity Leave in UAE: Private Sector Edition
| Maternity Leave Element | Provision Details |
|---|---|
| Total Leave Entitlement | 60 calendar days |
| Paid Leave Structure | 45 days with full pay 15 days with half pay |
| Employee Eligibility | Applicable to all private sector female employees (Pay adjusted if service |
| Extended Leave Options | 45 days unpaid (with medical certification) An additional 30 days of unpaid optional |
| Nursing Break Entitlement | 2 paid nursing breaks daily (up to 1 hour each) for 6 months after childbirth |
| Employment Protection | Legal protection against termination due to pregnancy or maternity leave |
Maternity Leave in the Government Sector
| Maternity Leave Element | Provision Details |
|---|---|
| Total Leave Entitlement | 90 calendar days with full pay |
| Employee Eligibility | Female employees working in federal or emirate-level government departments |
| Extended Leave Options | Renewable unpaid leave after the 90-day period (subject to approval) |
| Nursing Break Entitlement | 1–2 paid nursing breaks daily (up to 2 hours), for 6 months from childbirth |
| Emirate-Specific Variations | Regulations may vary slightly in emirates like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. |
| Employment Protection | Strong legal protections against dismissal during pregnancy or maternity leave |
Additional Leave Considerations
- Maternity leave may apply in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth, subject to medical documentation.
- Employees can request extended unpaid leave if the newborn has health complications.
- Sick leave can be used before or after maternity leave if medically justified.
- Maternity leave is allowed during the probation period, but may affect confirmation timelines.
- Adoption and surrogacy-related leave may be granted under compassionate or special leave policies, based on employer discretion.
- Health insurance coverage typically continues during maternity leave, depending on company policy.
Rights Protection During Maternity Leave
- Contractual benefits remain: Employees retain salary-based allowances during maternity leave.
- Continuous service is preserved: Maternity leave counts toward end-of-service benefit calculations.
- No work obligation: Employers cannot demand or assign work during maternity leave.
- Medical privacy is protected: Employers must keep pregnancy-related information confidential.
- Right to file complaints: Employees can report violations to MOHRE or labor authorities.
- Anti-discrimination assurance: Pregnant employees are protected from bias in hiring or promotions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the New Law for Pregnancy in the UAE?
Under the new law, female employees are entitled to 90 days of maternity leave, starting from the date of delivery. They also have the option to begin their maternity leave up to 30 days before the expected due date. Additionally, annual leave and unpaid leave may be combined with maternity leave, allowing for a maximum total leave of 120 days.
Is An Employer Allowed To Fire A Employee While She Is On Maternity Leave?
No, employers are not allowed to terminate a female employee while she is on maternity leave. This protection also extends to two months after she returns from maternity leave. Any such dismissal would be considered illegal.
Can An Employer Reduce an Employee’s Salary During Her Maternity Leave?
No, an employer cannot reduce the salary of a female employee during her maternity leave. The law also prohibits salary reductions for a period of two months after she returns to work from maternity leave.
What Legal Remedies Are Available To An Employee Who Has Been Discriminated Against Based On Her Pregnancy Or Maternity Leave?
Female employees who face discrimination due to pregnancy or maternity leave have several legal options. They can:
- File a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
- Submit a claim with the Federal Labour Relations Authority (FLRA)
- Pursue a lawsuit through the legal system
Additional support can be sought by contacting:
- The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC)
- A qualified legal advisor or lawyer
