Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health has taken firm action against a healthcare facility found to be issuing paid sick‑leave certificates in violation of sector regulations. The authority announced in March 2026 that the facility had been closed and its licence suspended after investigators uncovered serious breaches involving the improper issuance of medical leave documents.
What the Investigation Revealed
According to the Department of Health, the facility had been issuing paid sick‑leave certificates in exchange for money, without requiring patients to attend in person or undergo any medical assessment. This practice is a clear breach of UAE health‑sector laws, which require medical evaluations to be conducted ethically, accurately, and only by authorised professionals.
Inspection teams also identified additional regulatory violations, further confirming that the facility had failed to comply with the standards expected of licensed healthcare providers.
Immediate Closure and Legal Action
The Department of Health confirmed that the facility’s closure and licence suspension will remain in place until all legal and disciplinary procedures are completed. Staff members involved in the misconduct have been referred to the Public Prosecution, reflecting the seriousness of the violations.
Issuing false or unverified sick‑leave certificates is not a minor administrative issue. It undermines workplace integrity, disrupts employment systems, and can amount to fraud or forgery under UAE law. The authorities have made it clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
Strengthening Oversight in the Healthcare Sector
The Department of Health emphasised that it continues to intensify monitoring and inspection efforts across Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector. The goal is to ensure that all facilities operate with transparency, professionalism, and full compliance with regulatory standards.
The authority also reiterated that it will take decisive action against any practices that compromise:
- Patient safety
- Public trust
- The integrity of medical documentation
- Compliance with health‑sector regulations
This case serves as a reminder that healthcare providers must uphold the highest ethical and professional standards, particularly when issuing documents that have legal and employment consequences.
What Employers and Employees Should Know
Sick‑leave certificates must be:
- Issued only after a proper medical assessment
- Provided by licensed healthcare professionals
- Submitted through approved digital systems such as TAMM or Malaffi, depending on the emirate
Employees who obtain fraudulent sick‑leave certificates risk disciplinary action from their employers and potential criminal liability. Employers, meanwhile, should verify certificates through official channels and report any suspicious activity.
Conclusion
The closure of the Abu Dhabi healthcare facility highlights the UAE’s strong commitment to maintaining integrity within the medical sector. By taking swift action against facilities that issue unlawful sick‑leave certificates, the authorities are protecting both public trust and the credibility of the healthcare system.
At Ayesha Al Dhaheri Advocates and Legal Consultants, our team advises healthcare providers, employers, and individuals on regulatory compliance, professional‑licensing issues, and legal risks related to medical documentation. We offer clear, practical guidance to help clients navigate investigations, disciplinary procedures, and sector‑specific regulations in the UAE