Paternity leave is a period of time that a father is allowed to take off from work after the birth of his child. In the UAE, this concept has been recognized and legislated to support families. The Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2020 introduced a new Article 74 to the UAE Labor Law, granting private sector employees paternity leave rights.
Understanding the Legal Framework
What are the Paternity Leave Rights in the UAE?
In 2020, the UAE federal government introduced Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2020. This law added a new Article 74 to the UAE Labor Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 1980), which requires private sector employees to have paternity leave.
With the exception of those working in the Abu Dhabi Global Market or the Dubai International Financial Centre (which have their own employment rules), both male and female workers in the UAE’s private sector can take parental leave.
Paternity leave is a legal right for all fathers in the UAE. However, they must apply for it within 6 months after their child’s birth to remain eligible.
What are the Paternity Leave Rights in the UAE?
In 2020, the UAE federal government introduced Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2020. This law added a new Article 74 to the UAE Labor Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 1980), which requires private sector employees to have paternity leave.
With the exception of those working in the Abu Dhabi Global Market or the Dubai International Financial Centre (which have their own employment rules), both male and female workers in the UAE’s private sector can take parental leave.
Paternity leave is a legal right for all fathers in the UAE. However, they must apply for it within 6 months after their child’s birth to remain eligible.
Eligibility and Application
To be eligible for paternity leave, fathers must apply within six months of the child’s birth. The process involves notifying the employer and providing necessary documentation. It is important to note that failing to apply within the stipulated time results in the forfeiture of this right.
The eligibility criteria for paternity leave in the UAE are as follows:
- Duration: Male employees are eligible for a paid paternity leave of five days.
- Timing: Paternity leave in the UAE must be taken within the first six months following the child’s birth.
- Employment Status: Eligibility extends to all male employees, regardless of their employment status, whether permanent or on a fixed-term contract.
Documents are required for paternity leave application
Typically you need to provide the following documents:
- Child’s Birth Certificate: A copy of the birth certificate of your newborn child is essential.
- Formal Paternity Leave Request: You must submit a formal request for paternity leave to your employer or HR department. This should include the specific dates you plan to take leave within the first six months following your child’s birth.
- Employment Contract: Some organizations may require a copy of your employment contract to verify your employment status and entitlement to paternity leave.
- Marriage Certificate: In certain cases, especially if it is the first time you are applying for paternity leave, you may need to provide a marriage certificate.
It is always a good idea to check with your HR department for any additional requirements specific to your company.
Maternity Leave Provisions
The UAE Labour Law also includes provisions for maternity leave. Female employees have specific rights and obligations under Article 30 of the Labour Law, which must be adhered to by both the employer and the employee.
hat are the new UAE labour law now includes maternity leave?
In the UAE, there are specific guidelines for maternity leave that employers in the private sector need to follow.
If you plan to have a child in the UAE and are employed there, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure your rights are protected.
It’s worth noting that the UAE has updated several parts of its Labour Law, including the rules for maternity leave in Dubai. These updates affect annual, sick, and other types of leave.
According to Article 30 of the Labour Law, these are the rules for maternity leave in the UAE:
- Employers must grant maternity leave when a female employee requests it.
- Maternity leave starts at the end of the month before the expected birth month.
- A medical authority must issue a certificate stating the expected month of birth.
- Maternity leave is separate from other leave entitlements and does not affect them.
- To avoid losing pay, even at the UAE minimum wage, a female employee cannot work for another employer during maternity leave.
- A female employee’s job cannot be terminated due to pregnancy or while on maternity leave.
The responsibilities and rights of a female worker are clearly defined in the new UAE Labour Law. Both the employer and the employee must stick to these rules to avoid any negative consequences.
Sometimes, female employees might face issues with their employers regarding these matters. In such situations, it’s advisable to get professional help to address the problem. They can guide you in filing a labor complaint.
How soon should I notify my employer about taking paternity leave?
To ensure a smooth process for taking paternity leave in the UAE, it is essential to notify your employer as soon as possible. Here are some key points to consider:
- Timely Notification: As per the UAE Labour Law, you should inform your employer about your intention to take paternity leave within a reasonable timeframe. While there is no specific deadline mentioned, it is advisable to do so well in advance to allow for proper planning and coordination.
- One Month Notice: Although not explicitly required for paternity leave, it is a good practice to follow the general guidelines for annual leave notification. According to the UAE government, an employer must notify the employee of the date of annual leave at least one month in advance. While this rule specifically applies to annual leave, applying a similar approach to paternity leave demonstrates professionalism and consideration.
- Flexibility: Paternity leave can be taken within six months from the child’s birth. You have the flexibility to use these days consecutively or spread them out as needed. However, notifying your employer early ensures that work arrangements can be made smoothly during your absence.
Conclusion
Paternity leave in the UAE is a significant step towards supporting working fathers and promoting a family-friendly work environment. It is crucial for both employees and employers to be aware of these rights to ensure compliance with the law.
People May Ask
How long is paternity leave in UAE?
Male employees in the UAE are entitled to five working days of paid paternity leave. This leave can be taken within the first six months following the child’s birth. It is a great opportunity for fathers to spend quality time with their newborns.
How many days are given for maternity leave in UAE?
Female workers are granted 60 days of maternity leave in the UAE. Here is the breakdown:
- 45 days are fully paid.
- 15 days are half-paid.
- Additionally, if the mother or child is ill due to pregnancy or childbirth, she can take an additional 45 days without pay, supported by a medical certificate.
- If the baby is sick or has a disability, the mother can take 30 days fully paid, extendable for another 30 days without pay.
- After resuming work, the mother is entitled to one or two additional breaks per day for nursing her child, fully paid, for 6 months following delivery.
Is parental leave paid in the UAE?
Parental leave in the UAE is paid for both mothers and fathers in the private sector. It was introduced after the late H. H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan approved amendments to the Labor Law in August 2020.
What is Article 54 of the UAE labor law?
- Article 54 mandates that disputes regarding labor rights under the Labor Law must be filed with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE).
- MOHRE facilitates amicable resolutions and has the authority to issue conclusive decisions on disputes where the claim value does not exceed AED 50,000 or when there is non-adherence to a previously agreed amicable settlement.
- MOHRE decisions are binding and enforceable, with a right to appeal within a specified timeframe.
- The new Article 54 also imposes a one-year statute of limitations for employment claims.
The UAE government has amended its legal framework to offer five days of paid paternity leave to male employees in the private sector. This leave must be taken within the first six months following the child’s birth.
This move aims to promote gender equality and support the early care and attention required by newborns.
Paternity Leave Benefits in the UAE
Until recently, only public sector workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were entitled to 3 days of paid paternity leave after having a child. Unfortunately, male employees in the private sector didn’t receive any parental or paternity leave benefits. Some companies did offer these benefits voluntarily.
However, there’s good news! The UAE has now introduced a new paternity leave system for fathers across all industries. This change, which is a first in the region, aims to promote gender equality and empower employees. It allows fathers to spend time with their newborns and support new mothers.
To ensure that new dads receive the leave they’re legally entitled to, it’s crucial for employers worldwide with staff in the UAE to understand their rights related to paternity leave.
What are the Paternity Leave Rights in the UAE?
In 2020, the UAE federal government introduced Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2020. This law added a new Article 74 to the UAE Labor Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 1980), which requires private sector employees to have paternity leave.
With the exception of those working in the Abu Dhabi Global Market or the Dubai International Financial Centre (which have their own employment rules), both male and female workers in the UAE’s private sector can take parental leave.
Paternity leave is a legal right for all fathers in the UAE. However, they must apply for it within 6 months after their child’s birth to remain eligible.
What are the Paternity Leave Rights in the UAE?
In 2020, the UAE federal government introduced Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2020. This law added a new Article 74 to the UAE Labor Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 1980), which requires private sector employees to have paternity leave.
With the exception of those working in the Abu Dhabi Global Market or the Dubai International Financial Centre (which have their own employment rules), both male and female workers in the UAE’s private sector can take parental leave.
Paternity leave is a legal right for all fathers in the UAE. However, they must apply for it within 6 months after their child’s birth to remain eligible.
Eligibility and Application
To be eligible for paternity leave, fathers must apply within six months of the child’s birth. The process involves notifying the employer and providing necessary documentation. It is important to note that failing to apply within the stipulated time results in the forfeiture of this right.
The eligibility criteria for paternity leave in the UAE are as follows:
- Duration: Male employees are eligible for a paid paternity leave of five days.
- Timing: Paternity leave in the UAE must be taken within the first six months following the child’s birth.
- Employment Status: Eligibility extends to all male employees, regardless of their employment status, whether permanent or on a fixed-term contract.
Documents are required for paternity leave application
Typically you need to provide the following documents:
- Child’s Birth Certificate: A copy of the birth certificate of your newborn child is essential.
- Formal Paternity Leave Request: You must submit a formal request for paternity leave to your employer or HR department. This should include the specific dates you plan to take leave within the first six months following your child’s birth.
- Employment Contract: Some organizations may require a copy of your employment contract to verify your employment status and entitlement to paternity leave.
- Marriage Certificate: In certain cases, especially if it is the first time you are applying for paternity leave, you may need to provide a marriage certificate.
It is always a good idea to check with your HR department for any additional requirements specific to your company.
Maternity Leave Provisions
The UAE Labour Law also includes provisions for maternity leave. Female employees have specific rights and obligations under Article 30 of the Labour Law, which must be adhered to by both the employer and the employee.
hat are the new UAE labour law now includes maternity leave?
In the UAE, there are specific guidelines for maternity leave that employers in the private sector need to follow.
If you plan to have a child in the UAE and are employed there, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure your rights are protected.
It’s worth noting that the UAE has updated several parts of its Labour Law, including the rules for maternity leave in Dubai. These updates affect annual, sick, and other types of leave.
According to Article 30 of the Labour Law, these are the rules for maternity leave in the UAE:
- Employers must grant maternity leave when a female employee requests it.
- Maternity leave starts at the end of the month before the expected birth month.
- A medical authority must issue a certificate stating the expected month of birth.
- Maternity leave is separate from other leave entitlements and does not affect them.
- To avoid losing pay, even at the UAE minimum wage, a female employee cannot work for another employer during maternity leave.
- A female employee’s job cannot be terminated due to pregnancy or while on maternity leave.
The responsibilities and rights of a female worker are clearly defined in the new UAE Labour Law. Both the employer and the employee must stick to these rules to avoid any negative consequences.
Sometimes, female employees might face issues with their employers regarding these matters. In such situations, it’s advisable to get professional help to address the problem. They can guide you in filing a labor complaint.
How soon should I notify my employer about taking paternity leave?
To ensure a smooth process for taking paternity leave in the UAE, it is essential to notify your employer as soon as possible. Here are some key points to consider:
- Timely Notification: As per the UAE Labour Law, you should inform your employer about your intention to take paternity leave within a reasonable timeframe. While there is no specific deadline mentioned, it is advisable to do so well in advance to allow for proper planning and coordination.
- One Month Notice: Although not explicitly required for paternity leave, it is a good practice to follow the general guidelines for annual leave notification. According to the UAE government, an employer must notify the employee of the date of annual leave at least one month in advance. While this rule specifically applies to annual leave, applying a similar approach to paternity leave demonstrates professionalism and consideration.
- Flexibility: Paternity leave can be taken within six months from the child’s birth. You have the flexibility to use these days consecutively or spread them out as needed. However, notifying your employer early ensures that work arrangements can be made smoothly during your absence.
Conclusion
Paternity leave in the UAE is a significant step towards supporting working fathers and promoting a family-friendly work environment. It is crucial for both employees and employers to be aware of these rights to ensure compliance with the law.
People May Ask
How long is paternity leave in UAE?
Male employees in the UAE are entitled to five working days of paid paternity leave. This leave can be taken within the first six months following the child’s birth. It is a great opportunity for fathers to spend quality time with their newborns.
How many days are given for maternity leave in UAE?
Female workers are granted 60 days of maternity leave in the UAE. Here is the breakdown:
- 45 days are fully paid.
- 15 days are half-paid.
- Additionally, if the mother or child is ill due to pregnancy or childbirth, she can take an additional 45 days without pay, supported by a medical certificate.
- If the baby is sick or has a disability, the mother can take 30 days fully paid, extendable for another 30 days without pay.
- After resuming work, the mother is entitled to one or two additional breaks per day for nursing her child, fully paid, for 6 months following delivery.
Is parental leave paid in the UAE?
Parental leave in the UAE is paid for both mothers and fathers in the private sector. It was introduced after the late H. H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan approved amendments to the Labor Law in August 2020.
What is Article 54 of the UAE labor law?
- Article 54 mandates that disputes regarding labor rights under the Labor Law must be filed with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE).
- MOHRE facilitates amicable resolutions and has the authority to issue conclusive decisions on disputes where the claim value does not exceed AED 50,000 or when there is non-adherence to a previously agreed amicable settlement.
- MOHRE decisions are binding and enforceable, with a right to appeal within a specified timeframe.
- The new Article 54 also imposes a one-year statute of limitations for employment claims.