Annual Leave in UAE (2025) – A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Annual leave is an essential right for employees, allowing them to take time off work to rest, travel, or spend time with family. The UAE Labor Law ensures employees receive adequate paid leave to maintain work-life balance and productivity. This guide covers all aspects of annual leave entitlements, laws, and application processes in the UAE.

Definition and Purpose of Annual Leave in UAE

Annual leave is a legally mandated period of paid time off that employees receive based on their contract terms. As per Federal Decree-Law No. (33) of 2021, employees who have completed one year of service are entitled to 30 days of paid leave annually. Those who have worked for six months are eligible for two days per month.

Important Considerations for Annual Leave in UAE

• Duration: Employees are entitled to 30 days of fully paid leave after completing a year of service. Those working for at least six months but less than a year get two days of leave per month.

• Notification: Employers must inform employees about their leave at least one month in advance.

• Carry-Forward Leave: Unused leave days can be carried over to the next year with employer approval.

• Cash Compensation: If annual leave is not used within two years, employees may receive cash compensation instead.

• Part-Time Workers: Leave entitlements for part-time employees depend on their working hours and contractual agreement.

New UAE Labour Law Rules on Annual Leave

The UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) introduced significant changes to annual leave policies:

• Employees are entitled to a minimum of 30 days of annual leave.

• Employers must comply with the law to avoid penalties.

• The law emphasizes improving employee well-being and work-life balance.

Types of Leave in UAE

Aside from annual leave, the UAE Labour Law provides various leave options:

• Sick Leave: Employees can take up to 90 days annually, with full pay for the first 15 days, half pay for the next 30 days, and unpaid leave for the remaining 45 days.

• Study Leave: Employees studying at accredited UAE institutions can take 10 days of paid leave annually after two years of service.

• Bereavement Leave: Five days for the loss of a spouse, and three days for the loss of a parent, child, sibling, or grandparent.

• Hajj Leave: Employees can take up to 30 days of unpaid leave for Hajj pilgrimage, once during their employment.

• Maternity Leave: 60 days (45 days full pay, 15 days half pay), with additional leave options for complications and newborn care.

• Parental Leave: Five days of paid leave for fathers, to be used within six months of childbirth.

• Public Holidays: Employees are entitled to paid leave on official UAE public holidays.

Annual Leave Entitlement and Calculation

• Employees who have completed one year receive 30 days of annual leave.

• Those working for six months but less than a year receive two days per month.

• Leave entitlement is calculated based on service duration.

How to Apply for Annual Leave?

Employees should follow these steps when applying for leave:

1. Subject Line: Clearly state the purpose (e.g., "Annual Leave Request").

2. Professional Greeting: Address your employer respectfully.

3. Leave Details: Include start and end dates, reason for leave, and any supporting documents.

4. Acknowledgment: Mention your commitment to a smooth workflow.

5. Contact Information: Provide details for accessibility.

6. Delegation: Offer to delegate tasks if needed.

7. Documentation: Ensure adherence to company procedures.

8. Follow-Up: Encourage open communication for approvals.

9. Express Gratitude: Close the request on a polite note.

Conclusion

Annual leave is a crucial aspect of employment in the UAE, ensuring employees have sufficient time for personal well-being. Understanding entitlements, laws, and leave application processes helps both employees and employers maintain a productive and balanced workplace.