UAE Paternity Leave: 5 Days Paid Leave
Working fathers in the UAE are entitled to 5 working days of fully paid paternity leave, to be taken within 6 months of the child's birth. This right was introduced with the 2022 labour reforms. Here is everything you need to know about claiming it.
Your Paternity Leave Entitlement
5
Working Days
100%
Full Pay
6
Months to Use
Key Rules
- Leave must be taken within 6 months of the child's birth date
- You can take all 5 days consecutively or split them within the 6-month window
- Leave is paid at your full regular salary (basic + allowances)
- Working days means your normal workdays — weekends and holidays do not count
- Applies to all private sector employees regardless of length of service
- Applies even during your probation period
- Your employer cannot deduct paternity leave from your annual leave balance
How to Request Paternity Leave
Inform your employer in advance if you know the expected delivery date
After the birth, submit a formal leave application to HR or your manager
Attach the child's birth certificate as proof (you may also need your marriage certificate)
Specify whether you want to take all 5 days consecutively or split them
Your employer must approve the leave — they cannot refuse if you have valid documentation
Documentation Required
- Child's birth certificate (original or attested copy)
- Marriage certificate (if requested by employer)
- Formal leave application (written or through company HR system)
- Medical facility discharge papers (some employers require this)
What If Your Employer Refuses
Paternity leave is a statutory right. If your employer refuses:
Extending Your Time Off
If 5 days is not enough, consider combining paternity leave with annual leave for a longer break. You can take your 5 days of paternity leave followed by annual leave days. Some employers also offer compassionate leave for family events. Check your company policy or employment contract for additional entitlements beyond the statutory minimum.
Check Your Leave Benefits
Some employers offer paternity leave beyond the legal minimum. Upload your employment contract and we will identify all your leave entitlements, including any enhanced paternity provisions.
Check Your ContractFrequently Asked Questions
How many days of paternity leave do I get in UAE?
Under Article 32 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, working fathers in the private sector are entitled to 5 working days of paid paternity leave. This is a relatively new provision introduced with the 2022 labour reforms. Government employees may receive different entitlements under their specific regulations.
When can I take paternity leave?
Paternity leave must be taken within 6 months of the child's birth. You can take all 5 days consecutively or split them into separate periods within the 6-month window. The leave can start from the date of birth or any time within the first 6 months.
Is paternity leave paid at full salary?
Yes. Paternity leave is at full pay — your employer must pay your complete salary including basic salary and all regular allowances for the 5 working days. There should be no deductions or reductions in your pay during paternity leave.
What documents do I need for paternity leave?
You need to provide your employer with the child's birth certificate as proof. Some employers may also request a marriage certificate. It is advisable to inform your employer in advance (if the birth date is known) and submit the formal leave request with supporting documents as soon as possible after the birth.
Can my employer refuse paternity leave?
No. Paternity leave is a statutory right under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. Your employer cannot refuse or deny it if you meet the requirements (working father, within 6 months of birth, proper documentation). If refused, file a complaint with MoHRE.