Question: I work for a mainland company, and my employer has requested that I submit my annual leave plan for 2025, stating that I must adhere to it. Is it legal for employers in the UAE to require employees to submit a leave plan in advance and enforce compliance with it? Could you please clarify my rights in this situation?
Answer: In the UAE, an employer has the right to determine the dates of an employee’s annual leave based on operational needs, provided there is mutual agreement with the employee. According to Article 29(4) of the Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, the employer must notify the employee of their leave dates at least one month in advance.
If your employer employs more than 50 employees, they are required to have internal work regulations or an HR policy in place, as stated in Article 13(3) of the UAE Employment Law. This policy may outline the process for requesting and scheduling annual leave. For smaller companies with fewer than 50 employees, such internal policies may not be mandatory, but it’s still advisable for the company to have clear guidelines.
In your case, while your employer can request that you provide a leave plan and may choose to set leave dates to ensure smooth business operations, they cannot force you to follow the plan without flexibility. You may propose a system where both you and the employer agree on the dates in advance, accommodating both your personal needs and the company’s requirements. It’s best to have an open discussion with your employer to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
News Source: Khaleej Times
