Maternity Leave UAE 2026: Federal Rules vs Free Zone Differences
UAE federal maternity leave gives 60 days with 45 paid in 2026. Free zones may offer 90 days or more. Know your exact rights by employer type.
Federal maternity leave rules in 2026
The UAE Cabinet Decision No. 1 of 2025 sets the federal baseline. Private sector employees receive 60 calendar days of maternity leave. Forty five days are paid at full salary. The remaining 15 days are paid at half salary. This applies to all mainland companies under MOHRE rules.
Eligibility requires at least one year of service with the current employer. Leave can start up to 30 days before the expected delivery date. The employee must provide a medical certificate from a DHA or DOH licensed facility.
Free zone differences and top ups
Free zones operate under their own employment regulations. Many offer enhanced packages to attract talent. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Abu Dhabi Global Market commonly provide 90 calendar days at full pay. Some zones extend this to 120 days when combined with annual leave.
Always check the specific free zone authority handbook. The zone authority, not MOHRE, enforces these rules. If your contract states a higher number of days, that number applies over the federal minimum.
Paternity leave and partner rights
Fathers receive 5 working days of paid paternity leave under federal rules. This applies within the first six months after birth. Free zones sometimes extend this to 10 or 15 days. The same medical certificate rules apply.
Additional maternity benefits in 2026
Employees can request unpaid leave for up to 45 days after the paid period ends. This must be approved by the employer. Health insurance must continue throughout the leave period. MOHRE can fine employers who fail to maintain coverage.
Breastfeeding mothers receive two daily breaks of 30 minutes each for the first 18 months. These breaks count as working time. Remote work requests during this period must receive reasonable consideration.
How to claim your leave correctly
Submit a written request at least 30 days before your planned start date. Attach the medical certificate and expected delivery date. Keep copies of all correspondence. If your employer delays payment or approval, file a complaint through the MOHRE portal or your free zone authority portal.
Record the exact start and end dates in your HR system. Any overlap with public holidays extends the total leave by the number of holiday days.
Ask Tovi for more
Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →
Got more UAE questions?
Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →
Frequently asked questions
How many days of paid maternity leave do I get in 2026?▾
Federal rules give 45 days at full pay plus 15 days at half pay. Many free zones offer 90 days at full pay.
Can I start maternity leave before my due date?▾
Yes. You may begin up to 30 days before the expected delivery with a medical certificate from a licensed facility.
What happens if my free zone offers more leave than federal rules?▾
Your contract and free zone policy take precedence. You receive the higher number of days stated in your employment contract.
Still have questions about family law?
Ask Tovi — your free AI assistant for UAE life. Instant answers in 10+ languages, 24/7.
Ask Tovi about family law →