Introduction
Navigating maternity leave policies can be a daunting task, especially when planning for both your career and growing family. For women working in the UAE, understanding what the law grants you in terms of maternity rights is crucial. The Maternity Leave UAE Labour Law has laid out clear and structured provisions to protect pregnant employees and ensure they are treated fairly during one of life’s most significant moments.
Whether you’re an expectant mother or an HR professional responsible for implementing workplace policies, staying informed about maternity leave regulations helps in creating a balanced and lawful work environment. With regular legal reforms and progressive updates, the UAE continues to support working women, allowing them to manage both their roles at home and in the workplace efficiently.
Maternity Leave Entitlement Under UAE Law
Female employees in the UAE’s private sector are entitled to 60 calendar days of maternity leave, as per the most recent amendments. Out of these 60 days, the first 45 days are fully paid, while the remaining 15 days are paid at half the salary rate. These benefits apply regardless of the length of service, making it a supportive framework even for newly joined employees.
In case of pregnancy-related illness or complications, the employee may be granted an additional 45 consecutive or non-consecutive days of unpaid leave, provided medical documentation is submitted. This ensures that health and safety remain top priorities throughout the maternity period.
Conditions for Applying Maternity Leave in UAE
To apply for maternity leave, an employee must notify her employer in writing at least 30 days prior to her expected delivery date. The application should be supported by a medical certificate from a licensed healthcare provider. Employers may request additional documentation, especially if extended leave is required due to medical reasons.
Maternity leave can begin before the due date or immediately after childbirth, depending on the preference and health of the mother. However, employees must resume work after completing the maximum allowed duration to maintain their contractual obligations.
Maternity Leave Extension and Additional Support
In addition to the statutory 60 days, working mothers are entitled to two additional breaks per day for breastfeeding their child. Each break should not exceed 30 minutes and is provided for up to six months from the date of delivery. These breaks are fully paid and are separate from regular rest or meal times.
Employers are encouraged to provide flexible arrangements where possible, such as remote work options or adjusted working hours, particularly in the early stages post-childbirth. This promotes a more inclusive and supportive work culture.
Summary of Maternity Leave Provisions in UAE Labour Law
| Leave Type | Duration | Salary Entitlement | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Maternity Leave | 60 Calendar Days | 45 Full Pay + 15 Half Pay | Available to all female employees |
| Sick Leave (Post-Delivery) | Up to 45 Days | Unpaid (with medical proof) | Must be pregnancy-related illness |
| Breastfeeding Breaks | 2 breaks/day for 6 mos | Fully Paid | Max 30 minutes per break |
Maternity Leave for Private vs Government Sector
While private sector employees receive 60 days of maternity leave, female employees in the UAE government sector enjoy 90 days of fully paid maternity leave. This difference stems from separate governing rules that apply to public institutions. Government workers may also have access to extended unpaid leave and more flexible working arrangements post-maternity.
Private sector companies, however, are increasingly adopting similar policies voluntarily to stay competitive and retain skilled female professionals. It’s always advisable to check your contract and internal HR policies for additional benefits that may go beyond the standard labour law.
Protection Against Termination During Maternity
Employees are protected from termination during maternity leave. It is illegal for an employer to dismiss a woman because of her pregnancy, childbirth, or maternity leave. If termination occurs under such circumstances, it can be challenged in court as unjust and discriminatory.
Women can approach professional legal services, such as Prime Legal Consultancy (primelegalconsultancy.ae), to assist in such disputes. Legal support ensures that employees are treated fairly and helps in securing rightful compensation if the law has been violated.
Maternity Leave and Annual Leave Connection
Maternity leave can be combined with annual leave or unpaid leave, depending on the employer’s discretion and internal policies. For example, if an employee wants to extend her leave beyond the allowed maternity period, she may use her accrued annual leave days immediately after.
However, employees must submit a formal request and secure employer approval before taking additional leave. Being transparent and timely in communication helps maintain a good professional relationship while meeting personal needs.
Returning to Work After Maternity Leave
Upon returning from maternity leave, the employee should be reinstated to the same position or a similar role with equivalent pay and responsibilities. Any reduction in salary, demotion, or discrimination due to maternity leave is considered a breach of the law.
Employers are encouraged to support a smooth reintegration by offering flexible working conditions, gradual re-entry options, or mental wellness programs, especially for new mothers adjusting to work-life balance.
Conclusion
Knowing your rights under the UAE Labour Law helps create a more confident and secure journey into motherhood. With structured maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and legal protections, women in the UAE are supported through every phase of maternity. For any complexities, seeking professional advice from trusted legal experts like Prime Legal Consultancy (primelegalconsultancy.ae) ensures that both employees and employers comply with the law while maintaining a healthy, respectful workplace.
FAQ About Maternity Leave UAE Labour Law
Q1: How long is maternity leave in the UAE?
Ans: UAE labour law grants 60 days of maternity leave — 45 days full pay and 15 days half pay — for eligible employees.
Q2: How many days maternity leave in UAE for private sector 2025?
Ans: In 2025, private sector employees get 60 days maternity leave: 45 with full salary and 15 with half salary, as per Article 30.
Q3: What is Article 47 of the UAE Labour Law?
Ans: Article 47 protects employees from dismissal during maternity leave and allows them to appeal unfair termination.
Q4: What is Article 30 of the UAE Labour Law?
Ans: Article 30 outlines maternity leave rules, pay structure, additional unpaid leave, and rights to nursing breaks post-delivery.
Q5: What is the Labour Law for maternity leave in UAE?
Ans: The UAE Labour Law (Article 30) provides 60 days of maternity leave, plus an option for 45 days unpaid if needed.
Q6: How much maternity leave do you get in the UAE?
Ans: You get 60 days total — 45 days on full pay and 15 days on half pay, with an option for extended unpaid leave.
Q7: What is Article 27 of the UAE Labour Law?
Ans: Article 27 defines equal treatment and non-discrimination, including protection of pregnant women in the workplace.
Q8: What is Article 47 of the UAE Labour Law?
Ans: Article 47 prohibits termination during maternity leave and allows employees to file a grievance if terminated unfairly.
