Sick leave in United Arab Emirates: days and pay
United Arab Emirates allows up to 90 days of sick leave a year, paid on a sliding scale (Federal Decree-Law No. 33/2021, Art. 31).
In full: 15 days full pay, then 30 days at half pay, then 45 days unpaid (job-protected) — up to 90 days per year (after probation).
The pay bands
| Days | Pay |
|---|---|
| Days 1–15 (15 days) | Full pay |
| Days 16–45 (30 days) | 50% of the wage |
| Days 46–90 (45 days) | Unpaid |
45 days of the 90 days are paid; the rest are unpaid but still count as sick leave.
Falling sick during annual leave
The law does not say whether sick days during annual leave pause it, so the contract or company policy decides.
These are the statutory baselines, stated for general information — not legal advice. Entitlements can vary with tenure, sector, and contract; verify your specific case.
Frequently asked questions
How many sick days a year does the law allow in United Arab Emirates?
Up to 90 days a year: 15 days full pay, then 30 days at half pay, then 45 days unpaid (job-protected) — up to 90 days per year (after probation) (Federal Decree-Law No. 33/2021, Art. 31).
Is sick leave paid in full in United Arab Emirates?
Only the first 15 days at full pay. After that: 15 days full pay, then 30 days at half pay, then 45 days unpaid (job-protected) — up to 90 days per year (after probation).
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