Sick leave

Sick leave in the United Arab Emirates is governed by the UAE Labour Law, which entitles eligible employees to paid leave when unable to work due to illness or injury. Under current regulations, employees are entitled to a maximum of 30 days of paid sick leave per year, though employers may provide more generous terms in employment contracts or collective agreements.

The rule applies to all workers employed under the UAE Labour Law, including both citizens and expatriates. Sick leave is typically granted for medical conditions requiring absence from work, and employees must provide medical certification if absence exceeds three consecutive days or if the employer requests it. The leave is calculated on a calendar year basis and does not carry over to the following year unless the employment contract specifies otherwise.

The primary governing authority is the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, which enforces provisions under Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 (the UAE Labour Law), as amended. The most recent significant update came through Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, which modernised labour regulations and clarified sick leave entitlements effective from November 2021.

Employers and payroll teams must maintain accurate records of sick leave taken, require medical documentation when appropriate, and ensure that sick leave payments are calculated based on the employee's regular wage. During sick leave, employees retain their full salary and benefits. Organisations should establish clear sick leave policies aligned with UAE Labour Law requirements and communicate these policies to all staff members to ensure compliance and avoid disputes.