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Compassionate Leave in the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide

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Compassionate leave is a critical aspect of workplace policies that allows employees to take time off during challenging personal circumstances. In the UAE, compassionate leave reflects the country’s commitment to supporting employees in times of personal loss or crises. This blog explores compassionate leave in UAE, the compassionate leave policy in UAE, and how it is governed under UAE labor law.

Understanding Compassionate Leave

Compassionate leave, also referred to as bereavement leave, is granted to employees to deal with the death of close family members or other serious personal situations. This type of leave ensures that employees have the time and space to manage their emotional well-being and personal responsibilities without the added burden of workplace demands.

In the UAE, compassionate leave is a recognized form of leave outlined under the UAE Labor Law. Its provisions aim to protect employee rights while balancing the needs of employers.

Compassionate Leave Entitlement in UAE

The compassionate leave entitlement in UAE is clearly defined, ensuring fairness and clarity for both employers and employees. Here are the key aspects:

  1. Eligibility Criteria
    Employees are eligible for compassionate leave if they experience the loss of an immediate family member. Immediate family typically includes parents, spouses, children, and sometimes siblings, depending on company policies.
  2. Duration of Leave
    Under the revised UAE Labor Law, employees are entitled to:

    • Five days of paid leave in the event of the death of a spouse.
    • Three days of paid leave for the death of a parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild.

    The leave must be taken within the specific time frame of the incident, as stipulated by the employer’s compassionate leave policy in UAE.

  3. Applicability
    This leave applies to both private sector employees and government employees under slightly varying conditions. For government workers, additional leave entitlements may exist depending on departmental regulations.

Compassionate Leave Policy in UAE

The compassionate leave policy in UAE is guided by a balance of legal frameworks and employer-specific rules. Companies are required to adhere to the minimum leave entitlements outlined in UAE Labor Law, but many organizations offer additional flexibility as part of their corporate culture.

  1. Documentation Requirements
    Employees are generally required to provide documentation, such as a death certificate or equivalent proof, to validate their compassionate leave request. Employers may also require documents specifying the relationship between the deceased and the employee.
  2. Employer Discretion
    Some companies may extend the number of days or offer unpaid leave for employees needing more time. Others may allow compassionate leave for broader categories of relationships beyond immediate family.
  3. Communication and Policy Clarity
    It is crucial for organizations to communicate their compassionate leave policy transparently to employees, ensuring awareness and avoiding misunderstandings during emotionally challenging times.

Compassionate Leave in UAE Labor Law

The UAE Labor Law explicitly addresses compassionate leave to protect employees’ rights during times of bereavement.

  1. Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021
    Under Article 32 of the UAE Labor Law, compassionate leave regulations were officially introduced, marking a significant step toward employee welfare in the region.
  2. Employee Protections
    Employers are legally obligated to provide compassionate leave to eligible employees without penalizing them or deducting from other forms of leave entitlements, such as annual leave.
  3. Compliance and Penalties
    Companies failing to adhere to compassionate leave regulations may face penalties. Employees can report violations to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE), which oversees labor law compliance.

Practical Considerations for Employers and Employees

For Employers

  • Policy Integration: Ensure your company handbook includes a clear and detailed compassionate leave policy.
  • Training Managers: Train supervisors to handle compassionate leave requests with empathy and efficiency.
  • Flexibility: Be open to accommodating additional leave needs based on unique employee situations.

For Employees

  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your compassionate leave entitlement in UAE and your company’s specific policies.
  • Timely Communication: Inform your employer as soon as possible if you need to take compassionate leave.
  • Provide Documentation: Submit the necessary documents promptly to ensure a smooth approval process.

The Importance of Compassionate Leave

Compassionate leave is not just a statutory requirement but a reflection of an organization’s culture and values. Providing employees with the time to grieve and manage personal crises helps foster trust, loyalty, and long-term productivity.

In the UAE, the formal inclusion of compassionate leave in the labor law highlights the nation’s commitment to promoting humane workplace practices. Employees are more likely to feel supported and valued, enhancing overall job satisfaction and morale.

Addressing Common Questions

1. Can compassionate leave be extended?

Yes, some employers may offer additional days of leave or unpaid leave at their discretion.

2. Does compassionate leave apply to expatriates?

Yes, expatriates working in the UAE are entitled to the same compassionate leave benefits as Emirati employees.

3. What happens if an employer denies compassionate leave?

Employees can report such cases to MOHRE for investigation and resolution.

4. Is compassionate leave deducted from annual leave?

No, compassionate leave is a separate entitlement and cannot be deducted from an employee’s annual leave balance.

Conclusion

Compassionate leave in UAE is a vital aspect of the nation’s labor law, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in the workplace. By clearly outlining compassionate leave entitlements, the UAE ensures employees have the necessary support during personal crises.

Employers must strive to create policies that align with legal requirements while fostering a compassionate environment for their workforce. Meanwhile, employees should stay informed about their rights and communicate effectively with their employers when facing such circumstances.

As the UAE continues to advance its labor laws, compassionate leave stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to employee welfare and holistic workplace well-being.

Sick Leave Saudi Labor Law: Comprehensive Overview

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Sick leave is a fundamental right for employees, offering protection and stability during health challenges. For expatriates and citizens working in Saudi Arabia, understanding the provisions of the sick leave Saudi labor law related to sick leave is crucial. This article will explore the guidelines, entitlements, and employer responsibilities surrounding sick leave under the Saudi labor framework.

Overview of Sick Leave in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s labor laws are primarily governed by the Saudi Labor Law, which sets clear regulations to protect employee rights, including provisions for sick leave. These laws aim to balance the well-being of employees with the operational needs of employers.

The provisions of KSA sick leave labor law apply uniformly to employees, whether locals or expatriates, across the public and private sectors, barring specific exemptions.

Sick Leave Entitlements in Saudi Arabia

Employees in Saudi Arabia are entitled to a well-defined sick leave structure based on their employment status and the duration of illness. According to Saudi Arabia sick leave labor law, here’s what you need to know:

1. Paid Sick Leave Entitlement

An employee is entitled to 120 days of sick leave in a service year, distributed as follows:

  • First 30 Days: Fully paid.
  • Next 60 Days: Paid at 75% of the basic salary.
  • Final 30 Days: Unpaid leave if required.

This entitlement is based on the submission of a valid medical certificate from an approved health institution.

2. Medical Certificate Requirement

Employees must provide official documentation from a licensed physician or medical center confirming their illness and the recommended leave duration. Employers have the right to verify the authenticity of such certificates.

3. Combining Sick Leave with Other Leaves

The law permits employees to combine sick leave with annual leave, unpaid leave, or other entitlements if illness persists, subject to employer approval.

Employer Obligations Under KSA Sick Leave Labor Law

Employers in Saudi Arabia must comply with labor laws to safeguard employee rights. Here are their key obligations:

1. Acceptance of Medical Certification

Employers are required to honor legitimate medical certificates submitted by employees.

2. Non-Discrimination and Job Security

Under Saudi labor law, employees cannot be terminated solely because they take sick leave. This provides job security, especially during extended medical conditions.

3. Prompt Payment During Leave

For the paid portions of sick leave, employers are obligated to ensure salaries are disbursed on time without delays.

4. Health Insurance Coverage

All employees in Saudi Arabia are covered by mandatory health insurance provided by their employers. This ensures access to necessary medical care during illnesses.

Sick Leave for Expatriates in Saudi Arabia

Expatriates form a significant part of the workforce in Saudi Arabia. The KSA sick leave labor law applies equally to expatriate workers, ensuring they enjoy the same protections as Saudi nationals.

1. Work Visa and Medical Leave

Expatriates on work visas can avail of sick leave without jeopardizing their visa status, provided they adhere to legal requirements such as submitting medical certificates.

2. Health Insurance for Expatriates

Under the Cooperative Health Insurance Law, employers must provide health insurance to expatriates, covering medical consultations, treatments, and hospitalization.

3. Termination Due to Long-Term Illness

If an expatriate’s illness exceeds the 120-day sick leave entitlement and they cannot return to work, the employer has the right to terminate the employment contract, provided they offer end-of-service benefits and meet other legal obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can an employee be terminated during sick leave?

No, employees cannot be terminated while on sick leave unless they exceed the legally mandated 120-day period and cannot resume work. Employers must also follow due process, including providing termination benefits.

2. Are part-time employees entitled to sick leave?

Part-time employees are generally not entitled to the same sick leave benefits as full-time employees. However, the specific terms depend on the employment contract.

3. What happens if an employee falls ill during probation?

Employees on probation are entitled to sick leave under the Saudi Arabia sick leave labor law, provided they submit valid medical documentation.

4. Can sick leave days be carried over to the next year?

No, sick leave days cannot be carried forward to the next service year. The entitlement resets annually.

5. Does the law apply differently to women?

Sick leave provisions apply equally to male and female employees, ensuring fairness in the workplace.

Key Considerations for Employers and Employees

For Employees:

  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the sick leave provisions under Saudi labor law to ensure you’re treated fairly.
  • Document Illness Properly: Always obtain a valid medical certificate from an approved healthcare provider.

For Employers:

  • Comply with Legal Standards: Follow the guidelines of the KSA sick leave labor law to avoid disputes or penalties.
  • Foster a Supportive Environment: Encourage open communication and provide adequate support to employees during health challenges.

Recent Amendments and Updates

Saudi Arabia regularly updates its labor laws to enhance employee rights and foster a business-friendly environment. While the sick leave provisions remain consistent, it’s essential to stay informed about any legislative changes that may impact these entitlements.

1. Vision 2030 and Labor Reforms

As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is modernizing its labor laws to align with global standards. This includes improving worker welfare and streamlining employer-employee relations.

2. Enhanced Health Insurance Standards

With a focus on health and wellness, Saudi Arabia has strengthened health insurance regulations, ensuring better medical care for employees during sick leave.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Employers who fail to adhere to the Saudi Arabia sick leave labor law may face penalties, including fines, suspension of operations, or legal action. Non-compliance can also damage an organization’s reputation and employee trust.

Conclusion

The KSA sick leave labor law reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to worker welfare and balanced labor relations. Employees are entitled to clear and fair provisions for sick leave, ensuring they can focus on recovery without financial or job-related stress.

For both employees and employers, understanding and adhering to these laws is crucial. It fosters a harmonious workplace where the rights and responsibilities of all parties are respected.

By staying informed and proactive, employees and employers can navigate the challenges of sick leave with confidence, contributing to a productive and supportive work environment in Saudi Arabia. Contact us for more details.

UAE Labor Law: Overview of Employee Rights and Regulations

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The UAE is an appealing option for both corporations and workers due to its impressive economic growth. Given a flourishing workforce, it is critical that both businesses and employees are aware of UAE labor law. By 2024, important laws safeguard workers’ rights and encourage equitable treatment, secure workplaces, and uniform standards. This tutorial will examine important areas of UAE labor legislation that workers as well as employers should be aware of. 

Important Rights and Defenses Under UAE Labor Law

By clearly defining the rights and obligations of both employers and workers, UAE labor law places a high priority on an effective relationship in the workplace. The following are the main topics that the law addresses:

1. Terms of Employment

Any working relationship starts with a labor agreement. All contracts must be written in Arabic (although a translated copy is permissible) and include important phrases including pay, job title, and length of employment, according to UAE labor law. It needs to specify exactly:

  • Workplace responsibilities and hours
  • Pay (basic and any supplementary allowances included)
  • Rights to leave
  • Requirements for notice periods for resignation and termination

2. Hours of Work and Extra Hours

Although these can vary based on the industry, the UAE’s standard working hours are limited to eight hours per day or forty-eight hours per week. Equal treatment is ensured by overtime regulations:

  • The rate for overtime compensation is 125% of the regular hourly wage.
  • It increases to 150% for weekends or night shifts.
  • Hours of employment are shortened by two hours every day during the holy month of Ramadan.

Prolonged working hours are more typical in some industries, such as retail and hospitality, but companies must still follow overtime laws to avoid fines. 

3. Equal Benefits and Salary

In the United Arab Emirates, wages must be paid on schedule, usually at the end of the month. The UAE improves efficiency by ensuring that workers get their salaries through authorized financial organizations under the Wages Safety System (WPS). Men and women must be paid equally for the same duties and tasks, according to the Equal Pay Law.

4. Sick and Annual Leave

The UAE’s labor code guarantees that workers have enough time off to rest or rejuvenate:

  • Annual Leave: Workers are allowed 30 days of yearly leave after one year.
  • Sick Leave: Workers have the right to up to 90 days of sick leave annually after completing their probationary period. This is separated into: 30 days at half salary and 15 days at full pay, 45 days without pay if necessary.
  • Public Holidays: On UAE national holidays, all employees are entitled to paid time off.

5. Leave for Parents

To help families, the UAE offers both father and maternal leave. The duration of maternity leave for female employees is 60 days, including 15 days at half pay and 45 days at full pay. In order to assist their families after giving birth, fathers are also entitled to five days of paid paternity leave. The UAE’s dedication to family welfare is seen in its focus on rights for parents. 

6. Benefits of Termination and End of Service

Under Dubai labor law, an employee’s rights are clearly specified upon termination. Employers are required to give written notice of termination while adhering to the contract’s notice period, which is normally 30 to 90 days. When an employee is fired, they are entitled to:

  • Completion of service gratuity: Employees earn a gratuity based on their years of service. For the first five years, this is equal to 21 days of basic income, and for each additional year, it is equal to 30 days.
  • Costs of The return: Unless an employee finds employment elsewhere in the United Arab Emirates, employers are in charge of repatriating them to their home country.

7. Safety and Health at Work

In order to preserve safe working conditions, especially in costly sectors like construction, the UAE strictly adheres to safety standards. Employers are required to offer sufficient health and safety precautions, such as health insurance coverage, protective gear, and training. Participation is routinely evaluated by labor investigators, and failure may result in fines or a brief suspension of firms.

8. Protections Against Inequality and Harassment

According to recent revisions, labor law in UAE imposes stringent anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies to guarantee a courteous workplace. Assault in any form is prohibited, as is discrimination on the basis of gender, race, religion, nationality, or disability. Workers are free to report such problems to labor officials without worrying about reprisals.

UAE Work Permissions and Visa Sponsorship

Foreigners require an employer-sponsored work visa in order to work in the United Arab Emirates. Employers are required by UAE labor law to cover all sponsorship expenses, covering visa fees and medical examinations. An employee receives all labor law safeguards after obtaining a work visa.

Workers must keep in mind that their work visas are typically linked to their employers, thus quitting or getting fired may affect their visa status. Employees are given an opportunity in these situations to find another work or depart the United Arab Emirates.

Using UAE Labor Law to Report and Handle Conflicts

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) is in charge of handling issues. If workers feel their rights under Dubai labor law are being infringed, they can file a complaint. Mediation is typically used in the process, and both parties are urged to settle disagreements amicably before they get out of hand. Conflicts could be brought before labor courts if they are not settled.

  • Employees must have the following paperwork in order to file a claim: Employment contract, pay stubs, and pertinent emails. 
  • A written declaration describing the problem
  • Employer and witness contact information (if appropriate)
  • With a helpline and online platforms to streamline the complaint procedure, the MOHRE is renowned for providing prompt and equitable outcomes.

Changes and Updates in UAE Labor Law for 2024

The UAE has updated its labor rules in recent years to better suit a contemporary workforce. A few noteworthy updates for 2024 are as follows:

Versatile Work Models: The UAE currently accepts temporary, part-time, and remote work arrangements in addition to full-time employment, all of which are growing in popularity.

Prolonged Leaves: In order to give workers a better work-life balance, the UAE is thinking about implementing more leave regulations, such as personal and bereavement leave.

Enhanced Awareness of Minimum Wages: Although there isn’t a minimum wage set by the federal government, MOHRE is encouraging fair wage practices in a number of industries to guarantee that all workers receive a livable wage.

These adjustments are in line with the UAE’s Vision 2024, which aims to raise resident quality of life and increase worker happiness.

How to Handle Employment Disputes and Legal Procedures

Dubai labor law in 2024,  aims to safeguard workers while creating an atmosphere that is advantageous to companies. Employees may make sure they receive fair treatment and appropriate compensation by being aware of their rights. The UAE is a desirable area to live and work because the government is constantly reviewing and updating labor regulations to meet the demands of a varied and expanding workforce.

Being aware of UAE labor law, whether you’re an employer or an employee, guarantees a positive workplace culture and encourages adherence to UAE rules. With these safeguards in place, the UAE workforce is well-positioned for expansion and environmental responsibility, establishing a benchmark for regional labor standards. For more details visit us at MasdarEOR.

Saudi Labor Law Overview and Employee Rights

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In order to establish a more equitable and inclusive workplace, Saudi Arabia has made notable progress in reforming its labor laws. In order to promote a positive and productive connection between employers and employees, the Saudi Labor Law regulates employment agreements, working hours, pay, and rights for workers. Knowing the main tenets of Saudi labor law is crucial to defending your rights, regardless of whether you’re a Saudi national or an overseas employee.

Overview of Saudi Labor Law

With the objective to control working relationships and guarantee that workers have sufficient rights and benefits, the Saudi Labor legislation—also referred to as labor law in Saudi Arabia was established. Employees in the public and private sectors are subject to the KSA Labor Law, which is overseen by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. The Saudi government has made changes in recent years to better fit the nation’s Vision 2030, which aims to increase local job opportunities, broaden the economy, and raise labor standards.

Important Points Covered in Saudi Labor Law

Settlements of Employment

All Saudi Arabian workers are required to have employment contracts that clearly outline their job duties, pay, and other terms of employment. Although the contract is typically written in both Arabic and English, the Arabic version is the one that is used in the event of a dispute. Workers should be fully aware of the provisions of their contracts and make sure they include all of their rights and obligations.

Working Hours and Overtime

According to Saudi Labor Law employees are only allowed to work 48 hours a week, or eight hours a day, with less hours during the holy month of Ramadan. Employees have the right to overtime pay, which is computed at 15 percent of their usual hourly salary, if they work above certain hours. This promotes a healthy balance between work and life for employees by guaranteeing equitable remuneration for overtime.

Salary Levels and Earnings

Salaries must be paid on time by employers, and it is illegal to prolong payments. Although it might vary depending on the work contract, the wage payment mechanism is typically monthly. In order to guarantee equitable compensation and promote local employment, the Saudi Labor Law also sets a starting wage for Saudi citizens.

Leave Policies
Saudi Arabia Labor Law offers a number of leave options, such as:

  • Annual Leave: Workers have a 21-day paid yearly leave entitlement, which rises to 30 days after five years of ongoing employment.
  • Sick Leave: With different pay rates (full pay for the first 30 days, nearly all pay for the following 60 days, and unpaid for the remaining thirty days), employees are permitted to use up to 120 days of medical leave.
  • Maternity Leave: To promote equality between men and women in the workplace, female employees receive ten weeks of paid maternal leave.
  • Public Holidays: For statutory holidays like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Saudi National Day, paid leave is required by Saudi Labor law.

Advantages of Termination and End-of-Service

Usually the employer or the employee may initiate termination, but it must adhere to Saudi Labor law. An employee will receive compensation if they are fired without a good reason. Also, end-of-service rewards, which are determined by the employee’s last wage and years of service, are available to all workers who reach a specific service milestone.

Rights of Employees Under Saudi Labor Law

All local and foreign workers in Saudi Arabia must be aware of their rights as employees. The following are a few examples of essential rights:

  1. Defense Against Harassment and Discrimination: Saudi Labor Law forbids discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, gender, or religion. Employers are required to create an impartial and safe workplace, and harassment complaints are handled seriously, with severe sanctions imposed on offenders. Equal chances for all workers and a positive atmosphere at work are the goals of these precautions.

  2. The Right to a Safe Workplace: Employers are required to create an appropriate working atmosphere by putting safety precautions in place to stop diseases and accidents at work. This entails offering the required safety equipment, instruction, and emergency procedures. Strong workplace safety regulations are enforced by labor law Saudi, and workers are free to report hazardous situations without worrying about reprisals. 

  3. On Time Wage Deposit:  On-time wage deduction is a fundamental employee right under Saudi labor legislation. Employers are required by law to make sure that salaries are paid on schedule. In order to guarantee that workers receive fair and timely compensation, late or delayed payments are not only illegal but also open to legal action.

  4. The Ability to Resign: As long as they adhere to the observed time specified in their agreements, employees are free to leave their jobs. In Saudi Arabia, it is a breach of labor law for an employer to disregard an employee’s right to resign or to apply disproportionate fines.

  5. Benefits at the End of Employment: According to Saudi Labor Law, end-of-service benefits are a legal entitlement that are determined by the employee’s length of their employment and final wage. These perks demonstrate the Saudi government’s dedication to employee satisfaction and provide financial stability to workers quitting their employment.

Conclusion

The Saudi Labor Law is an all-encompassing framework created to safeguard Saudi citizens and foreign workers alike, promoting an equitable and vibrant workplace. Saudi Arabia is moving closer to establishing an inclusive workplace for everyone with new initiatives and continuous changes focused on employee welfare. To maintain a cordial and legally acceptable working relationship, it is crucial for both employers and employees to be aware of their rights under labor law in Saudi Arabia. Employers will be able to prosper in the Kingdom’s quickly changing labor market if they embrace these developments and comprehend the subtleties of the legislation.  

Visit MASDAREOR for more details about the Employment & Labor Laws in KSA. Check more insights.

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