Maternity Laws in the UAE- What are the rules?

 

Your Right, From Day One: UAE Maternity Leave is Here for You.

Remember when new mothers had to count weeks, check tenure, and rush back before they were ready? That era is over. The UAE's modernized labour laws have rewritten the story for working parents — starting with one clear, inclusive promise:

Maternity leave is available to all female employees in the UAE, regardless of their length of service.

That’s right. No waiting period. No “you must work here for one year.” As long as you’re on a valid employment contract, you’re eligible. The law is now on your side — from the very first day you join.

What This Really Means for You:

📅 Timeline of Change:
Before 2022 → Leave tied to tenure. Anxiety about eligibility.
After 2022 → Leave tied to you. Assurance from day one.

✨ The Real Shift:
The law no longer asks, “How long have you been here?”
It now asks, “How can we support you now?”

What You’re Entitled To:

✅ 60 days of maternity leave
→ 45 days with full pay
→ 15 days with half pay

✅ Eligibility from day one of employment — no probation penalties, no tenure requirements.

✅ Job protection — your role is safe while you’re away bonding with your newborn.

 

Why This Matters More Than a Policy Update:

This isn’t just a line in the company handbook. It’s a message:
You matter. Your family matters. Your well-being isn’t a perk — it’s a priority.

For every new mother in the UAE workplace, this means breathing room. It means confidence. It means you don’t have to choose between career and family in those precious early weeks.

Next Steps for Expecting Mothers:

1. Notify HR — share your happy news and start the conversation early.
2. Plan your leave — you have 60 supported days to embrace.
3. Return with confidence — your role and your rights are protected.

 

A Final Thought:

The UAE didn’t just extend maternity leave. It extended dignity, security, and choice to every working woman. Whether you’ve been here 10 years or 10 weeks — your journey into motherhood is respected, protected, and celebrated.

Welcome to a workplace that grows with you. 🌱

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Need to start your maternity leave process?
Reach out to your HR team today — we’re here to help you transition smoothly, confidently, and joyfully.