UAE Maternity Leave Law: Rights & Protections for Pregnant Employees
The UAE Maternity Leave Law firmly protects pregnant employees against discrimination and guarantees a range of rights under the labor law. These laws not only cover maternity leave and workplace safety but also extend to breastfeeding breaks and accommodations to help mothers balance their professional and family responsibilities effectively. This guide provides an in-depth look at maternity rights, workplace protections, and key resources available to pregnant employees in the UAE.
Maternity Leave: Duration, Pay, and Extensions
Under the UAE Maternity Leave Law, female employees are entitled to a maternity leave period of 60 calendar days. This leave is structured to provide financial support and sufficient recovery time before and after childbirth.
The first 45 days are fully paid, allowing mothers to focus on their health and the newborn without financial worries.
The subsequent 15 days are paid at half salary, offering additional time to bond with the child while easing back into daily routines.
In certain circumstances, maternity leave can begin earlier — up to one month before the expected delivery date — if advised by a doctor. This early leave option helps pregnant women prepare physically and mentally for childbirth.
The law also allows for extensions:
If the mother suffers from illness or complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, she can take up to 45 additional days of unpaid leave (with medical proof).
If the newborn is born with a disability or serious health condition, the mother is entitled to another 45 days of unpaid leave to provide necessary care.
Breastfeeding Breaks: Supporting Mother and Child
The UAE maternity leave law also acknowledges the importance of supporting mothers after returning to work. Labor law grants two paid breastfeeding breaks per day, each lasting up to 30 minutes, for up to 6 months after childbirth.
These breaks:
Count as part of working hours and are fully paid.
Can be taken consecutively at the start/end of the workday or split into shorter intervals.
By protecting breastfeeding breaks, the UAE ensures a family-friendly work environment while promoting both child health and workplace inclusivity.
Protection from Discrimination and Job Security
Another crucial aspect of the UAE maternity leave law is safeguarding women against discrimination. Employers are strictly prohibited from:
Terminating employees due to pregnancy or maternity leave.
Reducing salaries or limiting promotions/bonuses because of pregnancy.
Marginalizing employees after returning from maternity leave.
If discrimination occurs, employees can first report the issue to HR. If unresolved, they may seek legal support or file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Public vs. Private Sector: Key Differences
While the law applies broadly, maternity benefits may vary by sector:
Private Sector: 60 days of leave (45 fully paid + 15 half paid).
Public Sector: Often more generous; for instance, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, female government employees may receive 90 days fully paid maternity leave, along with flexible return-to-work arrangements.
Employees should confirm details with their HR department, as some employers provide more than the minimum required by the UAE maternity law.
Key Resources for Pregnant Employees
To better understand and enforce their rights under the UAE maternity leave law, employees can turn to:
MOHRE – The main authority overseeing labor laws and handling disputes.
Local Labor Offices – Offering support on complaints and clarifications.
Legal Advisors – For complex or unresolved discrimination cases.
Final Thoughts: Balancing Work and Motherhood in the UAE
Understanding your maternity rights in the UAE is crucial to ensuring your health, job security, and financial stability. With protections such as maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and safeguards against discrimination, the UAE provides a strong foundation for working mothers.
To thrive, employees should maintain open communication with HR, stay updated on labor law changes, and use available resources when necessary. Additionally, as workplaces evolve, flexible arrangements and remote work opportunities are becoming increasingly important for supporting mothers. You can read more about how businesses are adapting in the region in our article on The Future of Remote Work for Businesses in the Middle East.
Ultimately, UAE maternity law helps women strike a healthier work-life balance while preparing for the new chapter of motherhood.
