Mohammed bin Rashid Issues a Decree on Marriage Leave for Dubai Government Employees Who Are UAE Nationals
In a move aimed at supporting the stability of family life, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Prime Minister, has issued a new decree regarding marriage leave for Dubai government employees who are UAE nationals. The decree, No. (31) of 2025, emphasizes the importance of providing necessary support to employees as they embark on building successful families, thereby enhancing the balance between professional and personal commitments.
Details of the New Decree
The marriage leave decree encompasses all citizen employees working in government entities, including authorities concerned with free zones, members of the judiciary, and military personnel, with the exception of candidates. The decree includes provisions addressing various other categories that may be defined in the future by the Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
Duration of Leave and Required Conditions
According to the decree, employees are entitled to a fully paid marriage leave of ten working days. They are also permitted to combine the marriage leave with any other leave they are entitled to, in accordance with existing legislation. The marriage must be between Emirati citizens, and the employee must provide a certified copy of the marriage contract concluded after December 31, 2024.
Employee Rights During Marriage Leave
During the marriage leave period, the decree ensures that the employee receives their full salary, including all allowances and benefits. Additionally, the available leave can be flexibly utilized within one year from the date of the marriage contract. The decree provides necessary protection for the employee by preventing them from being summoned during this period, except in essential cases for military personnel, with the possibility of extending the leave in case of summons.
Transfer Rights and Other Applications
The decree also stipulates that employees retain their rights to marriage leave even if they transfer to another government entity, provided they are not entitled to the leave during their previous employment. The Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai will issue the necessary decisions to implement the provisions of the decree, which will come into effect on January 1, 2025.
This initiative represents a positive development that demonstrates the commitment of the Dubai government to support its citizens in achieving a balance between work and personal life, thereby enhancing family stability and supporting social development in the emirate.