UAE: Can Employees Combine Paid Leaves with Entitled Haj Leave?

Muslims are allowed up to 30 days of unpaid leave for religious pilgrimages, according UAE law.

Question: I've been working in mainland Dubai for six years. I plan to go on Haj pilgrimage this year and am aware of the 30-day unpaid leave entitlement per UAE law. However, my company provides 15 days of paid Haj leave. Can I combine it with other paid leave to reach 30 days?

Answer: Under UAE law, Muslim employees are entitled to a maximum of 30 days of unpaid leave for the Haj pilgrimage. This provision is outlined in Article 87 of the Federal Law 8 of 1980 regulating employment relations. The law specifies that this leave cannot be combined with other types of leave and should be solely dedicated to the pilgrimage, not exceeding 30 days.

If you are considering combining the 15 days of paid leave offered by your company for the Haj pilgrimage with other paid leave, it ultimately depends on your company's internal policies and your employer's discretion. It is advisable to consult with your employer to determine if such a combination is possible.

News Source: Khaleej Times