In a recent advisory, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) has affirmed that employers hold the authority to determine the timing of their employees’ annual leave. This guidance is a part of the comprehensive regulations outlined in the country’s Labor Relations Law.
Ensuring Employee Leave Entitlements
According to the Ministry, all employees are guaranteed a 30-day annual leave, as officially stated through a social media post. However, the specific start date of this leave is subject to the discretion of the employer. The employer also has the right to divide the annual leave into two periods. It is essential to note that any division of leave must be mutually agreed upon by the employee, and a notice period of at least one month should be provided before the leave commences.
Flexibility for Leave Timing
While the UAE government mandates that employees utilize their annual leave within the year, there is flexibility in discussing the timing with the employer, considering the organization’s requirements. This allows for a mutually beneficial arrangement between employers and employees.
Leave Benefits for Newly Recruited Employees
MoHRE assures newly recruited employees that they are entitled to leave benefits. Specifically, those who have completed a period of employment ranging from six months to one year are eligible for two days of leave per month. Once an employee surpasses the one-year mark, they become entitled to the full 30-day annual leave.
Determining Leave Entitlements
The MoHRE has clarified that employees’ annual leave entitlement is based on the duration of their employment within a year. For instance, if an employee has worked for six months during the year, they are entitled to half of their annual leave.
