Every employee working in the UAE should understand how UAE Sick Leave works. Falling ill is a normal part of life, and the law recognizes this by giving workers clear protections.
The UAE Labour Law sets out specific rights and responsibilities for both employees and employers when it comes to medical leave. Knowing these rules helps avoid confusion and protects your income during illness.
What Is UAE Sick Leave?
UAE Sick Leave is the legally protected time off granted to private sector employees who are unable to work due to illness. It is separate from annual leave and is governed by specific provisions under the UAE Labour Law.
Private sector employees generally become eligible for statutory sick leave only after completing their probation period. During probation, sick leave may still be granted, but it is typically unpaid unless the employment contract or employer’s policy provides otherwise.
Once probation ends, the statutory sick leave entitlement applies to eligible private sector employees in accordance with the UAE Labour Law.
How Many Sick Leave Days Are Allowed?
Under UAE Labour Law, eligible employees are entitled to up to 90 days of sick leave during a one-year period. These days may be taken continuously or intermittently, depending on the employee’s medical condition.
The 90 days are divided into three payment tiers:
- The first 15 days are paid in full.
- The next 30 days are paid at half salary.
- The remaining 45 days are unpaid.
The entitlement is subject to the conditions set out in the UAE Labour Law and your employment contract. All sick leave taken during the applicable one-year period counts toward the 90-day entitlement.
When Can an Employee Apply for Sick Leave?
An employee can apply for sick leave whenever illness prevents them from performing their job duties. This includes both sudden illnesses and ongoing medical conditions that make them unfit for work.
Employees should notify their employer of their illness within three working days, unless the employer’s policy requires earlier notification. Following your company’s reporting procedure, such as informing your manager or submitting the required documents, helps ensure your UAE Sick Leave request is handled properly.
Failing to notify the employer within the required timeframe or provide supporting documents when requested may affect your entitlement to sick leave or result in action under the employer’s policies, in accordance with the UAE Labour Law.
Is a Medical Certificate Required?
In most cases, yes. A medical certificate UAE is required to confirm that the absence is due to genuine illness.
Employers typically request this certificate for absences longer than a day or two, though company policy may vary. The certificate should come from a licensed healthcare provider or hospital recognized by UAE health authorities.
Submitting the medical certificate within the timeframe set by your employer is essential. Late or missing documentation can lead to the leave being treated as unauthorized absence.
Can an Employer Refuse Sick Leave?
Employers have the right to request reasonable proof that an employee is unable to work due to illness. They may require a medical certificate or other supporting documents in accordance with company policy and the UAE Labour Law.
If an employee meets the legal requirements for UAE Sick Leave and provides the required documentation, the employer must comply with the applicable provisions of the UAE Labour Law. However, an employee is not entitled to paid sick leave if the illness is caused by misconduct, such as the consumption of alcohol or narcotic substances.
Understanding the employee rights provided under the UAE Labour Law helps workers know their entitlements and responsibilities regarding sick leave.
Can an Employee Be Dismissed During Sick Leave?
An employee cannot be dismissed solely because they are taking UAE Sick Leave in accordance with the UAE Labour Law. Employees who are genuinely ill and comply with the legal requirements are entitled to the sick leave benefits provided by law.
However, if an employee remains unable to return to work after exhausting the statutory 90-day sick leave entitlement, the employer may terminate the employment in accordance with the UAE Labour Law.
These rules are designed to balance employee protection with the operational needs of employers while ensuring that both parties follow the legal requirements.
Sick Leave During Probation
The rules differ slightly for employees still in their probation period. While probationary staff can still request time off for illness, this leave is usually unpaid unless the employer chooses to pay it voluntarily.
Once probation is successfully completed, the employee becomes eligible for the full UAE Sick Leave structure, including paid and half-paid days.
Employee Responsibilities During Sick Leave
Employees also have responsibilities when taking sick leave. These include:
- Notifying the employer of their illness within three working days, unless the employer’s policy requires earlier notification.
- Submitting a valid medical certificate or other supporting documents when required by the employer.
- Following the company’s sick leave procedures and reporting requirements.
- Avoiding misuse of sick leave, as fraudulent claims or false medical information may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the UAE Labour Law.
Acting responsibly helps protect the employee’s legal rights while maintaining trust and compliance in the workplace.
Conclusion
Understanding UAE Sick Leave is essential for every private sector employee and employer in the country. The law provides a clear structure of 90 days per year, split between full pay, half pay, and unpaid periods, along with notification and documentation requirements.
Employees should always refer to the latest UAE Labour Law and their individual employment contract for full clarity. Being informed about UAE Sick Leave rules ensures fair treatment, smoother workplace communication, and peace of mind during times of illness.