How to Apply for Maternity Leave in UAE 2026

Quick Answer

Eligible mothers in the UAE receive 60 days of paid maternity leave under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. Apply at least 30 days before the expected delivery date via your employer, supported by a medical certificate from a DHA-, DOH- or MOHAP-licensed facility.

Who Qualifies for UAE Maternity Leave?

Both private- and public-sector employees are covered, including those on residence visas sponsored by mainland or free-zone companies. You must have worked at least one continuous year with the same employer to receive full pay; shorter service still grants leave but at 50 % pay. Domestic workers fall under separate rules managed by MOHRE.

Duration and Pay Breakdown

• Days 1–45: 100 % of basic salary plus housing allowance.
• Days 46–60: 50 % of basic salary plus housing allowance.
• Up to 45 additional unpaid days for medical complications certified by a DHA-approved doctor.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Maternity Leave in UAE

Step 1 – Get Medical Confirmation

Visit a DHA, DOH or MOHAP-licensed clinic or hospital for an official pregnancy report stating the expected delivery date. Keep the original and one clear scan.

Step 2 – Notify HR in Writing

Send an email or internal portal request at least 30 calendar days before the due date. Attach the medical report and state the planned start date of leave. Keep a read-receipt copy.

Step 3 – Submit Documents to MOHRE (Private Sector)

If your employer is mainland, upload the same documents via the MOHRE “Maternity Leave” service on the Tawjeeh portal. Free-zone employees follow their zone rules (DMCC, IFZA, ADGM). Processing takes 3–5 working days.

Step 4 – Register the Birth

Within 15 days of delivery, obtain the birth notification from the hospital and register the child through GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP Amer centres. This unlocks the newborn’s residence visa and your continued insurance cover.

Step 5 – Return-to-Work Confirmation

Submit a “fitness to return” certificate from your obstetrician before resuming duties. Employers cannot ask you to perform hazardous tasks for 50 days after delivery.

Common Mistakes Expats Make

• Assuming unpaid leave is unlimited – it is capped at 45 extra days.
• Not informing the employer in writing – verbal notice is invalid.
• Using non-licensed clinics – only DHA/MOHAP reports are accepted.
• Forgetting to update DEWA, Etisalat or du bills after the new visa is issued.

Free-Zone vs Mainland Differences

Mainland companies follow MOHRE rules directly. Free zones (DMCC, IFZA, ADGM) may add internal forms but cannot reduce the statutory 60-day entitlement. Always verify the exact portal link with your HR team.

Combining Maternity Leave with Annual Leave or Remote Work

You may attach your 30-day annual leave immediately after the paid maternity period. Remote-work requests must be approved separately; employers are not obliged to grant them.

Tips for a Smooth Process

1. Keep digital copies of every document in a dedicated Google Drive folder.
2. Set phone reminders 35 days before the due date for the HR notification.
3. Confirm payroll cut-off dates with finance so allowances are prorated correctly.
4. If complications arise, request an extension letter from your doctor at least 10 days before leave ends.

Key Takeaway

Start the paperwork early, use only DHA-licensed medical reports, and keep every confirmation email. Doing so guarantees 60 days of protected, partially paid leave and a stress-free return to work.