When life happens, there may be situations where you lose your loved ones, and in such instances, some time off to be with your family can be a great relief. For that reason, the Labour Law grants additional leave known as bereavement leave. Similarly, knowledge and education are among the greatest assets, and the Labour Law grants special leave to employees for educational purposes, subject to certain conditions. Article 32 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 grants bereavement leave and study leave, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to employee welfare and professional development.

What Is Bereavement Leave?

Bereavement Leave also known as mourning leave is allows the employees to a paid leave off from work due to death of a close family member. This entitlement recognises the emotional and practical challenges that arise during periods of grief.

Bereavement Leave Entitlements Under UAE Law

An employee is entitled to:

  1. Five (5) days of paid leave upon the death of a spouse.
  2. Three (3) days of paid leave upon the death of:
    • Mother
    • Father
    • Son
    • Brother
    • Sister
    • Grandson
    • Grandfather
    • Grandmother

The leave begins from the date of death, and the employees will have to submit supporting documentation issued by the relevant authorities.

What Is Study Leave?

UAE labour law encourages educational advancement by granting study leave to employees who are pursuing academic qualifications.

Who Is Eligible for Study Leave?

An employee may be entitled to:

  1. Ten (10) working days of study leave per year.
  2. The employee must be enrolled in an educational institution approved in the UAE.
  3. The enrolment may be on a regular or affiliated basis.
  4. The leave is granted for the purpose of sitting examinations.
  5. The employee must have completed at least two years of service with the employer.

An employee seeking educational leave should provide supporting documents issued by the relevant authorities.

Conclusion

These provisions demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to creating a balanced and supportive work environment. These rights reflect an understanding that employees may face important personal and educational obligations outside the workplace. Article 32 of the UAE Labour Law provides employees with valuable protections extending beyond annual leave and sick leave. Whether dealing with the loss of a loved one or pursuing academic advancement, employees may be entitled to paid leave in specific circumstances.

We at Ayesha Aldhaheri Advocates & Legal Consultants, we assist both employers and employees in understanding their rights and obligations under UAE Labour Law, including leave entitlements and workplace compliance requirements.