Losing a loved one is an emotional storm no one is ever truly prepared for. But in moments of grief, the last thing anyone should worry about is work obligations. That’s where bereavement leave in the UAE comes into play. The UAE labor law acknowledges the importance of time off to cope with such losses, offering structured leave benefits to employees.
If you’re wondering how much time you’re entitled to, who qualifies, and whether your job security is affected, you’re in the right place. This guide will break it all down in simple terms, ensuring you get the most updated insights for 2025.
Bereavement Leave in UAE: Understanding Your Entitlement
As per the UAE Labour Law, employees working in the private and public sectors are entitled to bereavement leave when a close family member passes away. The number of days depends on the relation to the deceased:
- 5 days for the loss of a spouse
- 3 days for the loss of a parent, child, sibling, grandchild, or grandparent
This leave is fully paid, meaning there is no salary deduction when you take bereavement leave in UAE. However, leave must be taken within a set period following the death.
Who Can Apply for Bereavement Leave in UAE?
To qualify, an employee must:
- Have a valid employment contract in the UAE
- Provide official proof of the loss (such as a death certificate)
- Inform their employer within the stipulated time
It’s important to check with your HR department on the specific documentation required, as different companies might have varying internal policies.
Bereavement Leave in UAE for Private Sector Employees
The UAE labour Law extends bereavement leave rights to both public and private sector employees. While public sector employees follow government-set guidelines, private companies may have additional policies in place. Some firms allow additional unpaid leave or flexible work arrangements during this period.
For expats working in the UAE, the process remains the same. However, companies may grant extra unpaid leave if the death occurs abroad and the employee needs to travel.
Bereavement Leave in UAE for Family and Expats
Losing a family member is a heartbreaking experience, and the UAE labour law acknowledges this by offering leave to help employees manage personal and emotional responsibilities. Whether you are a UAE national or an expat, you are entitled to bereavement leave under the same conditions.
Family Relations Covered
The UAE labour law recognizes the importance of time off when losing immediate family members. The law covers spouses, children, parents, siblings, and grandparents. However, if an employee loses a more distant relative, additional leave may depend on company policies.
Bereavement Leave for Expats
For expats living in the UAE, bereavement leave applies just like it does for UAE nationals. If an expat employee needs to travel to their home country, additional unpaid leave may be arranged at the employer’s discretion.
Bereavement Leave in UAE Calculator: How to Plan Your Time Off
Many employees ask: How many days can I take off? To simplify, use the table below:
| Relationship to Deceased | Paid Leave (Days) | Additional Unpaid Leave (Employer’s Discretion) |
| Spouse | 5 days | Yes, if approved by the employer |
| Parent | 3 days | Yes, if approved by the employer |
| Child | 3 days | Yes, if approved by the employer |
| Sibling | 3 days | Yes, if approved by the employer |
| Grandparent/Grandchild | 3 days | Yes, if approved by the employer |
If you need extra days, discuss with HR about emergency leaves in UAE or unpaid leave options.
How Does Bereavement Leave Compare to Other Leave Types in UAE?
If you’re trying to understand how bereavement leave compares to other types of leave, here’s a quick breakdown:
- UAE Labour Law Annual Leave: Employees receive 30 days of paid leave per year, separate from bereavement leave.
- Maternity Leave in UAE: Female employees are entitled to 60 days of maternity leave, with a portion being fully paid.
- Sick Leave UAE: Employees get 90 days of sick leave per year, with varying pay structures.
- Emergency Leaves in UAE: Some employers offer emergency leave, but it is usually unpaid and granted on a case-by-case basis.
- Unpaid Leave Policies: Some companies offer unpaid leave extensions for those who require additional time to handle personal responsibilities after a loss.
Latest Trends: Is Bereavement Leave Evolving in UAE?
As we step into 2025, UAE labor laws continue to evolve with employee well-being in mind. Some recent trends include:
- More compassionate HR policies: Many firms are expanding their policies to allow extra unpaid leave.
- Flexible work arrangements: Some companies now permit remote work or flexible hours after bereavement leave.
- Mental health support: Employers are focusing on grief counseling services for affected employees.
- Extended Support Networks: Organizations are introducing employee assistance programs (EAPs) to help workers cope with loss through counseling and wellness programs.
NG Manpower – Your Trusted HR Partner
At NG Manpower, we understand that employees are the backbone of every business. Whether you’re an employer looking to update your company’s bereavement leave policies or an employee seeking guidance on your rights, our HR experts are here to help.
From managing annual leave, maternity leave, sick leave, and emergency leaves in UAE, to optimizing workforce solutions, we’ve got you covered. Our team ensures seamless HR compliance, helping businesses create a compassionate and productive workplace. Get in touch today and let’s build a workplace that truly cares.
Final Thoughts
Grieving is a personal process, and having the right bereavement leave in the UAE allows employees the necessary time to cope. Whether you’re an expat or working in the private sector, understanding your rights is essential. As UAE labor laws continue to evolve, staying informed helps both employees and businesses build a compassionate work environment. A well-defined leave policy enhances workplace well-being, loyalty, and productivity. Contact us now to learn more.
Common Questions about Bereavement Leave in UAE
Can I extend my bereavement leave?
Yes, but it depends on your employer. Some companies allow additional unpaid leave upon request.
What if I lose someone outside my immediate family?
Bereavement leave is officially granted for close family members. If you need leave for a distant relative, it will be your employer’s discretion.
Is bereavement leave separate from sick leave or annual leave?
Yes, bereavement leave is a separate entitlement and does not affect your sick leave or annual leave balance.
Streamline your operations
