Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. ARCHIVE

Emirati employees working in the Dubai government sector can now take 10 working days of fully paid marriage leave, following a new decree issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Mohammed issued the decree on Wednesday (July 16), with the goal of promoting family stability and enhancing the work-life balance for UAE nationals. The new policy applies to Emiratis working in government departments, free zones, special development zones (including DIFC), as well as Emirati judicial and military personnel. The decree allows eligible employees to combine marriage leave with other forms of leave and to use the 10-day leave either continuously or in parts within one year of their marriage. To qualify, employees must meet the following conditions: • The marriage contract must be certified by a UAE authority. • The marriage must occur after December 31, 2024. • The employee’s spouse must also be a UAE citizen. • The employee must have completed their probationary period. Employees will receive their full gross salary, including all financial allowances, during this period. Importantly, marriage leave cannot be interrupted by the employer—except in the case of military call-up, in which case the unused portion of the leave may be deferred. Those called to national or reserve service will retain their leave entitlement and can use it within a year of returning to work. In the event of an inter-department transfer, the unused marriage leave carries over to the new entity. The decree comes into effect retroactively from January 1, 2025, and will be published in the Official Gazette. Supporting decisions will be issued by the Chairman of the Executive Council as required. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page