In the UAE, employees working in mainland companies are entitled to five working days of paid parental leave, which can be used within six months of their child's birth. According to UAE labor laws, it is possible to combine paternity leave with annual leave, allowing fathers to extend their time off to support their families during this crucial period.
To take advantage of this, employees must provide their employers with a copy of the child's birth certificate. This flexibility is granted under Article 32(1)(b) of the Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 and Article 21 (5) of the Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022.
This provision is particularly beneficial for parents who need extended time off beyond the standard parental leave. By combining their paternity leave with their annual leave, employees can ensure they have more time to spend with their newborn and assist their spouse during the early stages of parenthood. This combined leave must still be taken within the six-month period following the child's birth.
For those considering this option, it's advisable to plan accordingly and communicate with your employer to ensure a smooth process.
News Source: Khaleej Times
