What is paternity leave in UAE?

Paternity leave is the time off granted to fathers after the birth of their newborn child. This type of leave is typically granted to fathers to provide care and support to their partner and newborn while adjusting to their new parental responsibilities. The UAE Labor Law provides specific provisions for paternity leave, ensuring male employees are given paid leave following the birth of their child.

Eligibility criteria for paternity leave

To be eligible for paternity leave in the UAE, employees must meet certain conditions:

• The employee must be a male and a legal parent of the child.
• Paternity leave must be requested within 6 months of the child's birth.
• The employee should be working in an organization that adheres to UAE labor law regarding paternity leave benefits.

Paternity leave for public sector employees

In the public sector, which includes federal government employees, the UAE provides paid paternity leave to male employees. The benefits are generally more comprehensive in the public sector compared to the private sector. Public sector employees are entitled to 5 days of paid paternity leave, which must be taken within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Paternity leave for private sector employees

Private sector employees in the UAE are also granted the right to paternity leave under the UAE Labor Law. Male employees in the private sector are entitled to 5 working days of paid leave, which must be taken within 6 months of their child's birth. This entitlement is part of the broader efforts to ensure that employees have the opportunity to balance their work and personal responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is paternity leave in the UAE as per the labor law?

In the UAE, paternity leave is 5 working days for both public and private sector employees, as per the labor law. The leave must be taken within 6 months of the child's birth.

When can I apply for maternity leave in the UAE?

Paternity leave must be taken within the first 6 months following the child's birth.

Can an employer terminate an employee during paternity leave?

According to UAE labor law, employers cannot terminate employees for taking paternity leave. The law ensures that male employees in both public and private sectors are granted 5 days of paid paternity leave, which must be taken within 6 months of the child's birth.

Do mothers get maternity leave in the UAE?

Yes, mothers in the UAE are entitled to maternity leave . The entitlements differ for employees in the private and public sectors.

Where can I find more information about parental leave in the UAE?

For detailed information on parental leave, you can visit the official government portal on maternity and paternity leave: UAE Government Parental Leave Information.

Can I take paternity leave if I am not a biological father?

Paternity leave in the UAE is typically for biological fathers. Eligibility for adoptive fathers,legal guardians, or fathers of children born via surrogacy depends on employer HR and company policies and the employment contract.