UAE Sick Leave: Know Your Rights, Rules, and Essential Requirements
As employees navigate their rights regarding sick leave in the UAE, it is essential to understand the regulations set by the Federal Decree by Law No. (33) of 2021.
This law outlines entitlements for both paid and unpaid sick leave, along with guidelines for notifying employers and procedures during extended sickness.
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Employees are entitled to a total of 90 days of sick leave annually after completing their probation period. The payment structure for this leave is as follows:
- Full pay for the first 15 days
- Half pay for the next 30 days
- Unpaid leave for the remaining 45 days
During the probation period, sick leave can be requested but is subject to employer approval and requires a medical report. In such cases, the leave will be unpaid.
There are specific circumstances under which paid sick leave is not granted, including if the illness results from employee misconduct or if the employee is still within their probation period.
Employees must notify their employers about their sickness within three days of falling ill, accompanied by a medical report from an authorized health entity. Importantly, employers cannot terminate an employee while they are on sick leave.
However, if an employee exhausts their 90 days of sick leave and is still unable to return to work, the employer may terminate the contract, although the employee will retain their end-of-service benefits.
For sick leave exceeding five days, a medical certificate must be attested. Employees should consult their HR department regarding specific company policies and ensure compliance with the local health authority’s requirements for medical documentation.
Understanding these rights and rules is crucial for employees to manage their sick leave effectively and avoid potential complications with their employers.
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