In a move aimed at supporting family life and work-life balance, Dubai government employees, who are UAE nationals, will now be entitled to 10 working days of fully paid marriage leave.
The new decree, issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, applies to Emirati employees working in government departments, including those in free zones and special development zones under government supervision.
The marriage leave is designed to enhance family stability and allow employees time to begin their new life chapter without work pressures. Employees may combine marriage leave with other types of leave and can take the 10 days all at once or in separate parts within one year from the date of their marriage.
Here are the stipulations of this law:
-
Eligibility: The employee and their spouse must both be UAE citizens.
-
Probation: The employee must have completed the probationary period.
-
Marriage date: The marriage must have taken place after 31 December, 2024, with a certified marriage contract issued in the UAE.
-
Salary: The leave is fully paid, including all allowances and financial benefits.
-
Job security: Employees cannot be called back to work during this leave, except for military personnel, if the need arises.
-
Documentation: A copy of the marriage contract must be submitted once when applying for leave.
This new policy is part of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to promote family-friendly workplace practices, and reflects the leadership’s commitment to building a strong, stable society where personal wellbeing is prioritised alongside professional life.