Paternity Leave in UAE [2024 Guide]

The UAE government recently made a change to its laws regarding paternity leave for male employees in the private sector.

Now, fathers are entitled to take five days of paid leave when their child is born.

This change aims to support fathers in caring for their newborns during the first six months of their lives.

In this article, we'll discuss why this change is important and how it can benefit families in the UAE.

We'll look at how it allows fathers to be more involved in their children's early care, and we'll explore the impact it could have on families and society as a whole.

Let's dive in and understand the significance of paternity leave in the UAE.

UAE Government Approves Paid Parental Leave

In a significant update, the UAE government has introduced a new parental leave policy, allowing both male and female private sector employees to take paid leave for five working days to care for their newborns.

This move comes following the approval of a federal decree-law by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Key Points:

• Duration: The parental leave extends from the baby's birth until the child reaches six months old.
• Importance: This initiative emphasizes the importance of fathers' involvement in childcare, promoting shared parental responsibilities.
• Impact: The new policy benefits a wide range of private sector employees and aligns with the UAE's humanitarian principles and Emiratisation efforts.
• Legislation: The amendment is outlined in federal decree-law no. 6 for 2020, which replaces article 32 and adds a new article no. 74 to labor relations regulations.

This progressive step reflects the UAE's commitment to supporting working families and fostering a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Paternity Leave Benefits in the UAE

Paternity leave is gaining recognition as a vital benefit for working fathers, and recent changes in the United Arab Emirates reflect this acknowledgment.

Previously, only public sector employees had access to three days of paid paternity leave, leaving male workers in the private sector without such benefits, except in some cases where it was voluntarily provided by employers.

However, a significant development has taken place with the recent revision of the UAE Labour Law.

This amendment mandates paternity leave for fathers across all industries, marking a notable step forward in promoting gender equality and empowering employees.

This ensures that fathers have the opportunity to bond with their newborns and support their partners during the crucial early stages of parenthood.

For employers operating in the UAE, understanding these legal changes is crucial to ensuring compliance and supporting their employees.

By providing paternity leave, companies contribute to a more balanced and supportive work environment, where employees can effectively manage their work and family responsibilities.

What are the Paternity Leave Rights in the UAE?

Paternity leave rights in the UAE have undergone significant changes, particularly with the implementation of Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2020.

This law introduced a new Article 74 to the UAE Labor Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 1980), which mandates paternity leave for male employees in the private sector.

All male and female workers in the private sector of the UAE, with the exception of those employed in the Abu Dhabi Global Market or the Dubai International Financial Centre, now have the right to parental leave.

Paternity leave is legally guaranteed for fathers in the UAE.

However, to avail this benefit, fathers must apply within six months of their child's birth.

Failure to do so within this timeframe may result in the loss of eligibility for paternity leave.

Duration of Paternity Leave in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), new fathers are entitled to five working days of paid paternity leave in Dubai.

This leave can be taken at any time within the first six months following the birth of their child.

For companies operating in the UAE, it's important to consider the following:

• Extended Leave: While the standard five-day paternity leave is a good start, some families may benefit from a longer period of leave. Offering extended paternity leave can better support fathers in bonding with their newborns and helping with family responsibilities.
• Clear Policy Communication: Employers should ensure that their paternity leave policies are clearly communicated to employees. This includes outlining how and when the leave can be taken, as well as any additional benefits or support available to new fathers.
• Additional Support: Employers can provide additional support to employees taking paternity leave by offering resources and assistance tailored to their needs. This may include flexible work arrangements upon their return to help them transition back to work smoothly.

Applying for Paternity Leave in the UAE: Step-by-Step Guide

• Notify Employer: When the baby arrives, inform your employer promptly about your intention to take paternity leave.
• Submit Leave Application: Fill out a leave application form provided by your employer. Clearly state the dates you plan to take off for paternity leave.
• Plan Coverage: Arrange with your employer for someone to cover your responsibilities while you're on leave. Make sure they know what tasks need to be handled in your absence.
• Inform Colleagues: Let your colleagues know about your paternity leave and who will be covering for you. This ensures everyone is aware and can plan accordingly.
• Return to Work: Once your paternity leave ends, return to work on the agreed-upon date. Be prepared to resume your duties and catch up on any missed work.

Following these simple steps will help you smoothly apply for and take paternity leave in the UAE.

Paternity Leave Entitlements for Multiple Births in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), fathers are entitled to the same paternity leave benefits regardless of whether they have a single birth or multiple births.

This means that irrespective of the number of children born, fathers will receive a 5-day paternity leave allowance.

What is the new UAE labor law that now includes maternity leave?

The new UAE labour law includes updated provisions regarding maternity leave for female employees in the private sector.

These provisions aim to protect the rights of pregnant women and ensure they receive appropriate time off to care for their newborns.

Here are the key aspects of the new regulations:

• Leave Approval: Employers must approve maternity leave requests from female employees.
• Leave Start Date: Maternity leave begins on the last day of the month preceding the expected delivery month.
• Medical Certificate: A medical certificate indicating the expected delivery month is required from a recognized medical institution.
• Leave Separation: Maternity leave is separate from other types of leave and does not affect entitlement to other leave types.
• Job Security: Employers cannot terminate a female employee's job due to pregnancy or while she is on maternity leave.
• Employment Limitations: Female employees cannot work for another company during maternity leave, even if the wage offered is below the UAE minimum.

These regulations provide clear guidance for both employers and employees regarding maternity leave rights and responsibilities under the UAE Labour Law. Compliance is crucial to ensure the well-being and rights of pregnant employees are upheld.

In summary, the recent introduction of five days of paid paternity leave for male employees in the private sector of the UAE represents a significant step towards gender equality and family support.

This move acknowledges the importance of fathers' involvement in childcare and promotes shared parental responsibilities.

By mandating paternity leave, the UAE government demonstrates its commitment to supporting working families and fostering a more inclusive work environment.

Employers must ensure compliance with these new regulations to effectively support their employees during this crucial time.

Overall, this development marks a positive shift towards a more balanced approach to work and family life in the UAE.

Also Read: Is Sick Leave Without a Medical Certificate Allowed in the UAE?