Further Updates on Maternity Leave for Dubai Government Employees

In January, it was confirmed that Dubai Government employees would receive three months of paid maternity leave from the date of delivery. This came into effect on March 1st.

Now, the Ruler of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued a decree with new provisions that will be applied retroactively to current maternity leave of female employees of the Dubai Government.

The details

Expecting mothers will be able to add annual and unpaid leave to their maternity leave, allowing them to extend it up to 120 days (4 months). Female employees can begin the maternity leave 30 days before the due date but only if it’s continuous.

Should a miscarriage occur prior to the 24th week of pregnancy, the female employee is allowed to take sick leave with a doctor’s note. In the event that it happens after the 24th week, or in case of stillbirth, she is entitled to 60 days of leave.

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Additionally, for mothers who give birth to a baby with special needs, they will be entitled to a full year of childcare leave. This is renewable for up to three years, depending on medical reports and approval of senior management from their workplace.

This comes as part of the Dubai Government’s great efforts to integrate individuals with special needs into society, starting from birth.

Nurseries

If the total number of children (below 4 years old) of female employees within a Dubai Government department is more than 20, then the department must create a nursery for them.

However, if there are less than 20 children, then two or more departments can create a nursery together or employ nearby nurseries if they lack the space.

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Mothers can expect to receive their basic monthly salary while they are on maternity and childcare leave. Weekends and holidays are to be counted as part of the leave.

This decree is applicable retrospectively from March 1st, 2017.

Private sector

Unfortunately, this decree still doesn’t apply for private sector employees. However, it is still a step forward that will hopefully bring on the changes for working women in the UAE, regardless of sector.