Under the UAE Labour Law, a female employee is entitled to 60 days of maternity leave: 45 days at full wage and a further 15 days at half wage [1].
Key points:
- The entitlement applies regardless of length of service.
- Leave can start up to 30 days before the expected delivery date.
- An employee may take up to 45 days of additional unpaid leave for medical reasons related to pregnancy or childbirth, supported by a medical certificate.
- After return, the mother is entitled to two paid breastfeeding breaks of 30 minutes each, for up to six months.
- Termination because of pregnancy or maternity leave is prohibited.
Public-sector and free-zone employees may have more generous entitlements under their specific regulations (e.g., DIFC employment law, ADGM employment regulations).
For disputes — e.g., dismissal during maternity leave or unpaid leave deductions — consult a UAE-licensed lawyer.
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More questions readers asked
Sub-questions our research cluster pulls together — each links to its full Tier-B/C answer.
+−How much annual leave am I entitled to in the UAE?
Full-time private-sector employees in the UAE are entitled to 30 calendar days of paid annual leave per year after 12 months of service.
+−UAE Labour Law: Notice Period for Contract Termination?
Standard notice is 30–90 days written notice (must be set in contract). The other party can pay in lieu. Probation termination requires 14 days.
+−Can I be terminated during my probation period in the UAE?
Yes. Employer must give 14 days written notice. No gratuity if under 1 year. Discriminatory or retaliatory dismissal can still be challenged at MOHRE.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice tailored to your specific situation, consult a UAE-licensed lawyer.
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