New Dubai Decree Grants Marriage Leave for Emirati Government Employees: Key Rules Explained
TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com
In a move aimed at promoting family stability and work-life balance, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued a decree granting marriage leave to Emirati employees working in Dubai government entities.
The new law, which takes effect on January 1, 2025, entitles eligible employees to 10 working days of fully paid leave upon marriage. It applies to Emirati staff employed by government departments, free zone authorities (including the DIFC), judicial authorities, and military personnel in the emirate.
🔹 Four Conditions to Qualify:
To be eligible for the marriage leave, employees must meet the following criteria:
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Be an Emirati national employed by a Dubai government entity.
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Have a spouse who is also an Emirati citizen.
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Have completed the probationary period, in accordance with the relevant human resources law.
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Ensure the marriage contract is officially attested in the UAE and was concluded after December 31, 2024.
🔹 Key Benefits:
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Full gross salary is paid during the leave period, including all allowances and financial entitlements.
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Marriage leave can be taken either continuously or in parts within one year of the marriage contract date.
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The leave can also be combined with other types of leave available to the employee.
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Under special circumstances, unused leave may be carried over to the following year with supervisor approval.
🔹 Exceptions and Provisions:
Employees cannot be recalled during their marriage leave, except military personnel. In such cases, unused leave can be resumed post-recall. If an employee is unable to use the leave due to national or reserve service, the entitlement can be carried forward and used within a year of returning to work.
If an employee is transferred or newly appointed to another government department without having used the leave, they will retain the right to take it later, subject to the same conditions.
Supporting Stronger Families
The decree aligns with broader government goals to support early stages of family life and provide a healthy balance between personal commitments and professional responsibilities. Authorities believe this policy will enhance emotional well-being and reinforce the societal value of marriage in the Emirati community.
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