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A new decree has been issued in Dubai (No 31 of 2025)), which grants government employees from the Emirates 10 days of fully paid leave for marriage.
This initiative, endorsed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and the Ruler of Dubai, aims to promote family wellness and improve the balance between work and personal life.
The policy is applicable to UAE Nationals employed in Dubai’s governmental bodies, including those that manage special development and free zones.
It also extends to judicial and military staff, with the exception of cadets.
Important aspects related to the marriage leave for Emirati government employees in Dubai
- To be eligible, employees must have finished their probation period, and their spouse should also be a UAE national. The marriage certificate must be verified within the UAE and the marriage must have taken place after December 31 of the previous year.
- Employees need to present their marriage certificate just once when applying for the leave.
- Marriage leave can be taken as a single block or split into portions within a year from the marriage date. While on leave, employees will receive their full salary, including any allowances and financial perks.
- During their marriage leave, employees cannot be summoned by their government entities, except for military personnel if the situation demands.
- If an employee is required to participate in national service or a promotional course during their leave, any remaining marriage leave days will be deferred.