UAE labour law gives private-sector employees a clear maternity-leave entitlement, and unlike some benefits it does not depend on length of service. Here's how it works.
Duration and pay
A female employee is entitled to 60 days of maternity leave, structured as follows:
- First 45 days — full pay.
- Next 15 days — half pay.
This entitlement applies from day one of employment — there is no minimum service requirement to qualify.
Additional leave
If a mother experiences an illness related to the pregnancy or childbirth that prevents her return to work, she may take additional leave of up to 45 days, which is unpaid. In cases of a stillbirth or the illness or death of the child, additional protections and leave may apply.
Nursing breaks and protection
After returning to work, a mother is entitled to nursing breaks each day for a defined period. The law also protects against termination or discrimination on the grounds of pregnancy or maternity.
Managing parental leave cleanly
Maternity, annual and sick leave all interact with payroll differently. TimeChart's leave management keeps each entitlement tracked accurately and ready for payroll, so nothing is missed and returns to work are smooth.
Keep every leave type accurate and compliant. See TimeChart's leave module.
Schedule a free demoPlease note: This article is general information, not legal advice. UAE labour rules are updated periodically — always confirm the current details with the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (mohre.gov.ae) or a qualified professional.