Sick Leave in UAE As Per Labour Law: A Quick Guide 2025

When you’re not feeling your best, the last thing you want to worry about is company rules. That’s why understanding your rights of sick leave in UAE is so important. So you can focus on recovery, not red tape.

Starting a new job? Managing a team? Or just curious about your rights? This 2025 guide makes everything about sick leave simple. Covering topics from who gets paid time off to how to apply without stress. We’ve packed all the essential info into one easy read. Let’s go and understand in detail how many sick leaves per month in UAE you can avail of.

What Is Sick Leave and Why It Matters?

Sick leave lets you take time off when you’re unwell. The good news? You are allowed to do so without risking your job or paycheck. It’s a key workplace right designed to protect your health. Meanwhile keeping things fair for your employer.

Sick Leave UAE labour law 2025 ensures that employees get proper rest when they’re sick. But to benefit from it, one must know how it works – stick to a few simple rules. Remember that sick leaves are different from annual leave in UAE.

Who Can Take Sick Leave in the UAE?

Not everyone qualifies for paid sick leave in UAE right away. Here’s when you become eligible:

Eligibility Criteria

• ✔️ You must complete your probation period.
• ❌ During probation, you’re not entitled to paid sick leave.
• ✅ After probation, you get up to 90 days of sick leave per year.

Let’s break that down:

If you have unused sick leave in UAE, you can use these leaves in case of illness in the future. However, use them before they expire.

Can You Take Sick Leave During Probation?

Yes, but there’s a catch. You can take time off if you get sick during probation. However, it will be counted as unpaid leave. Always inform your employer and submit a doctor’s note if your illness lasts more than 1-2 days.

UAE Sick Leave Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Taking care of your health is essential. It is a matter of your well-being. But also for maintaining a safe workplace. Applying for a UAE sick leave involves a clear process governed by labor laws and employer policies. Anyone can be eligible, either new to the workforce or simply needing a refresher. Below a detailed steps on how to properly apply for sick leave in the UAE.

1. Inform Your Employer Promptly

The first important step when feeling unwell is to inform your employer. Do so as soon as possible. Employees must notify their employer within 3 days of falling ill as per the UAE laws.

Your company’s internal policy may dictate who to contact. It could be your manager, supervisor, or HR department. Early communication shows professionalism and allows your employer to manage workloads during your absence.

2. Get a Medical Certificate

The next step is to visit a certified healthcare facility/medical professional. Obtain a medical certificate that outlines:

• Your diagnosis
• The severity of your condition
• The number of days you need to rest or recover

This sick leave certificate in UAE acts as official documentation of your illness. It is a mandatory requirement for most sick leave applications in the UAE.

3. Fill Out a Sick Leave Application

Once you’ve received your medical certificate, complete your company’s sick leave application form. This form may be available through your HR portal or employee handbook. The application typically requires the following details:

• Your full name and employee ID
• Date of illness and duration of leave
• A copy of your medical certificate
• Contact information during your leave
• Emirates ID or passport copy (if requested)

Submit the completed form with the supporting documents. Submit them to your HR department or designated supervisor for review.

4. Pay for Medical Certificate Attestation (If Needed)

You might be required to attest your medical certificate by the UAE Ministry of Health or another official body. This could happen in some cases when your leaves are extended. It confirms the medical documentation’s authenticity.

There may be a small fee for the attestation process. Be sure to retain the payment receipt. Your employer might require it for record-keeping or reimbursement purposes.

Know and apply for sick leave today if you get ill. Also, explore the paternity leave in the UAE application process with eligibility criteria here.

Why a Medical Certificate is Important

UAE employers need a medical certificate to approve sick leave for several reasons:

• Confirms that the employee is genuinely unwell and unable to work.
• Deters misuse of leave benefits by requiring official documentation.
• Shields the employer from liability in case of health-related incidents during work hours.
• Helps employers manage contagious illnesses in the workplace to prevent outbreaks.

How Much Will You Get Paid During Sick Leave?

The pay for sick leave depends on how many days you’ve already taken in the year:

Sick leave salary calculation in UAE is a must to know so you can claim your rights fairly.

Employee Duties During Sick Leave

If you’re taking time off due to illness, you also have a few simple responsibilities:

🔹 Your To-Do List as an Employee:

• Inform your boss or HR within 3 days.
• Submit a doctor’s note if requested.
• Be honest about your condition.
• Stay reachable if more details are needed.

What Must Employers Do

On the flip side, companies also have to keep things transparent and fair. They need to:

🔸 Employer Responsibilities:

• Shared sick leave rules with all staff.
• Review sick leave requests quickly.
• Pay employees according to the law.
• Keep clear records for future reference.

FAQs: Quick Answers

Q: Can I get a backdated medical certificate?
 A: You can avail of it only if you have a valid reason and see the doctor within a few days of your illness.

Q: What if I’m sick but don’t have a doctor’s note?
 A: Your employer allows short absences. But for anything longer, you’ll need official proof.

Q: Can mental health issues qualify for sick leave?
 A: Absolutely! Conditions like anxiety or burnout can qualify you for a sick leave. Just be sure you consult a licensed healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Health, Know Your Rights

Sick leave isn’t just a policy; it’s your right. Not feeling well? Don’t hesitate to take the time you need. Protect your health and your paycheck when you follow the correct steps. Be it an employee wanting to rest or a manager handling requests, know how sick leave works. It ensures that everyone stays healthy and legally protected.

Hence, understanding the proper sick leave procedure allows the time to recover. It also builds trust and transparency between you and your employer. It’s a reminder to always keep copies of your medical documents. Notify your employer and follow up with HR. So everything is processed smoothly. Difficult to manage all yourself? Contact Ng Manpower, and we’ll assist you the best. Taking care of yourself is always the priority—just make sure you follow the right steps along the way!