Your Guide to UAE Annual Leave Rules
As a private sector employee in the UAE, it’s essential to know your rights when it comes to annual leave. The UAE Labour Law, as outlined in Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, provides clear guidelines on annual leave entitlement, and it’s crucial to understand these rules to avoid any disputes with your employer.
Private sector employees in the UAE are eligible for two days of leave for each month of service, once they complete six months at a new job. After completing one year of service, they are entitled to a fully paid annual leave of 30 days, as per Article 29 of the UAE Labour Law. This means that employees can accrue paid annual leave, which can be taken at a time agreed upon with their employer.
In addition to annual leave, the UAE Labour Law also provides for other types of leave, including maternity leave, parental leave, study leave, and Hajj leave. Female employees are entitled to a maternity leave of 60 days, while new parents can take a parental leave of five working days. Employees studying at accredited educational institutions can also take a paid leave of 10 days per year to sit for examinations, provided they have completed two years of service with their employer.
When it comes to carrying forward annual leave, the law allows for limited carry-forward under specific conditions. Employees must use their leaves in the year they are due, but they can carry over unused annual leaves to the following year with the consent of their employer. In this case, the employee will be entitled to payment for the unused days, calculated on the basis of their basic salary.
It’s also important to note that employers must settle all final dues, including leave encashment, within 14 days of the employment end date. Failure to do so can result in penalties and MOHRE labour complaints. The employee is entitled to encashment of any accrued leave fraction, and there is no forfeiture of unused days upon termination, regardless of the reason for leaving.
For private sector employees, understanding these rules can help avoid disputes with their employers and ensure that they receive their entitled leave. Employers, on the other hand, must comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and maintain a positive working relationship with their employees.
If you’re a private sector employee in the UAE, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these rules and regulations to ensure that you’re receiving your entitled leave. By understanding your rights and obligations, you can avoid any potential disputes and enjoy your well-deserved break.
