Under UAE Labour Law, employees are entitled to annual leave and public holidays with pay. Knowing your rights ensures you receive your full benefits and helps you plan ahead.
Annual Leave Entitlements in the UAE
All full-time employees in the UAE are entitled to paid annual leave after completing a period of continuous service. The exact number of days you receive depends on your length of service and employment contract. Annual leave is a legal right, and employers must grant it each year.
- Employees are typically entitled to a minimum annual leave after completing one year of service.
- During the first year, a pro-rata amount of leave may apply after six months of service.
- Leave dates are usually set by mutual agreement but may be scheduled by the employer according to business needs.
- Unused leave may be carried over or compensated, but this depends on your contract and UAE law.
For the most accurate information on your annual leave entitlement, always refer to your employment contract and confirm with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or your company’s HR department.
Public Holidays: Your Paid Days Off
UAE employees are also entitled to paid public holidays as announced by the government each year. These may include religious holidays, National Day, and other official occasions. The list and timing of public holidays can vary annually, so it’s important to check the current year’s calendar.
- If a public holiday falls on your usual day off, your employer may grant a substitute day or provide compensation.
- Working on a public holiday typically entitles you to compensatory leave or additional pay, as per UAE Labour Law.
- Public holidays are applicable to both public and private sector employees, but the exact days off can differ by sector.
Always check with MOHRE or your employer for the latest official holiday announcements and your rights regarding compensation.
How to Apply for Annual Leave and Holidays
Applying for annual leave or requesting a day off for a public holiday involves following your company’s internal procedures. This usually means submitting a formal leave application and getting approval from your manager or HR department. Accurate documentation helps avoid disputes and ensures your leave is recorded properly.
- Submit a leave request form or use your company’s HR system.
- Provide sufficient notice as required by your employer’s policy.
- Attach any supporting documents if required (such as for emergency leave).
- Wait for written approval before making travel or personal plans.
If you need assistance, a verified PRO or typing centre listed on FindPRO can help you prepare and submit your leave requests correctly, ensuring compliance with UAE labour regulations.
Important Rules and Best Practices
To make the most of your annual leave and public holiday entitlements, it’s important to understand key legal rules and best practices:
- Annual leave is a statutory right—your employer cannot deny it without a valid reason.
- Employers must pay your full salary during annual leave and public holidays.
- Unused annual leave may be carried forward or compensated in some cases, but always confirm the current rules with MOHRE.
- Keep records of your leave applications and approvals for future reference.
- If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with MOHRE or seek assistance from a qualified PRO.
Consulting a verified PRO or typing centre via FindPRO ensures your rights are protected and your leave paperwork is handled efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days of annual leave am I entitled to in the UAE?
Your annual leave entitlement depends on your length of service and employment contract. After one year, employees are typically eligible for the full annual leave as per UAE Labour Law. Always confirm your current entitlement with your employer or MOHRE.
What happens if I work on a public holiday?
If you are required to work on a public holiday, you are generally entitled to either a substitute day off or additional pay, as per UAE Labour Law. Check with your HR department for your company’s specific policy.
Can my employer deny my annual leave request?
Employers may reschedule annual leave based on business needs but cannot deny your legal entitlement. Any disputes should be addressed with HR or escalated to MOHRE for resolution.