Losing a loved one is never easy. During such difficult times, having a few days off work to grieve, spend time with family, and handle important matters can really help. That’s where compassionate or bereavement leave comes in.
Under the UAE Labour Law, specifically Article 32 of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, employees are entitled to paid bereavement leave: five days in the event of a spouse’s death, and three days for the death of a parent, child, sibling, grandchild, or grandparent. This type of leave allows people to focus on healing and dealing with personal responsibilities without the added pressure of work.
However, it’s essential to understand under what circumstances the compassionate leave in UAE works. Don’t worry, we will give you a quick and clear overview of what the law says, who can take this leave, how many days are allowed, and what documents might be needed.
What is Bereavement or Compassionate Leave?
Compassionate or bereavement leave is time off from work that allows employees to grieve and manage personal matters following the death of a loved one. This leave provides individuals with the necessary space to attend funerals, handle related responsibilities, and begin the healing process.
Employees typically take compassionate, or bereavement leave in situations like:
- The death of a spouse or partner.
- The loss of a parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild.
- The passing of a close friend or someone with whom the employee had a significant relationship.
Is Compassionate Leave the Same as Bereavement Leave?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there can be slight distinctions:
- Bereavement Leave: Specifically refers to time off granted after the death of a family member or close friend.
- Compassionate Leave: A broader term that may also encompass time off for other serious personal situations, such as caring for a critically ill relative.
However, in many workplaces, both terms are used to describe leave taken due to the death of someone close.
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How Many Days of Compassionate Leave in the UAE?
UAE compassionate or bereavement leave is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, which outlines the rights and entitlements of employees in such circumstances.
Duration of Bereavement Leave in UAE:
According to Article 32 of the law, the duration of bereavement leave depends on the employee’s relationship to the deceased:
- Employees are entitled to 5 days of paid leave in the event of the death of a spouse.
- Employees are entitled to 3 days of paid leave in the case of the death of a parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild.
This leave allows employees to take time off to grieve, attend funerals, and manage any necessary personal and family affairs.
Applicability of UAE Bereavement Leave:
These provisions apply to all employees in the UAE, across both the private and public sectors.
The leave is fully paid, and the salary during this period is calculated based on the employee’s basic wage, unless otherwise stated in the employment contract.
Guidelines for Employers and Employees:
- Employers cannot deny bereavement leave to an eligible employee, as long as they meet the criteria and submit any required documentation.
- Employees are generally expected to notify their employer as soon as possible about their need for bereavement leave.
- Supporting documents (such as a death certificate and proof of relationship) may be requested by the employer for record-keeping and verification purposes.
Alignment with HR Policies:
While the UAE Labour Law sets the minimum requirement for bereavement leave, some companies may offer additional days or more flexible arrangements based on internal policies, especially in cases of extended travel or significant emotional impact. Employees are encouraged to check with their HR department for company-specific rules.
Who is Eligible for Bereavement Leave in the UAE?
Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, all employees working in the UAE’s private sector are entitled to bereavement leave. This includes full-time, part-time, temporary, and flexible workers, regardless of their nationality.
Read Also: Labour Contract in UAE: All you need to know
Required Documentation
To process bereavement leave, employers may request the following documents:
- Death Certificate: An official document confirming the death.
- Proof of Relationship: Documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or any other legal documents that establish the relationship between the employee and the deceased.
Providing accurate and timely documentation ensures that the leave is granted without unnecessary delays.
How to Apply for Compassionate Leave
Employees are expected to inform their employer about the need for bereavement leave as soon as possible. The typical process includes:
- Immediate Notification: Inform your supervisor or HR department promptly upon learning of the bereavement.
- Formal Request: Submit a written leave application, either via email or through the company’s internal leave management system, specifying the reason and duration of the leave.
- Submission of Documents: Provide the required documentation to support the leave request.
How Is Bereavement Leave Payment Calculated?
The payment for bereavement leave is calculated based on the employee’s basic salary, excluding additional allowances such as housing, transportation, or commissions.
Calculation Formula:
- Daily Wage = Basic Monthly Salary ÷ 30
- Bereavement Leave Pay = Daily Wage × Number of Leave Days
Example:
- If an employee has a basic monthly salary of AED 9,000:
- Daily Wage = AED 9,000 ÷ 30 = AED 300
- For 5 days of leave (e.g., death of a spouse): AED 300 × 5 = AED 1,500
- For 3 days of leave (e.g., death of a parent): AED 300 × 3 = AED 900
Why Knowing Your Rights Matters
Knowing about compassionate or bereavement leave in the UAE is important for both employees and employers. It helps you understand your rights and gives you peace of mind during a tough time like losing a loved one. If you’re not sure about your company’s policies or how the leave works, don’t hesitate to talk to your HR team, they’re there to help. A supportive workplace makes a big difference when someone is going through personal grief.
If you’re a business owner, it’s just as important to understand UAE labour laws so you can support your team the right way and keep your business running smoothly. That’s why we recommend speaking with the experts at Shuraa Business Setup. We can guide you through the local laws and make sure your business is fully compliant and ready for success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Bereavement Leave Paid in UAE?
Yes, bereavement leave in the UAE is fully paid. Employees are entitled to:
1. 5 days of paid leave in the event of the death of a spouse.
2. 3 days of paid leave for the death of a parent, child, sibling, grandchild, or grandparent.
This paid leave applies to both private and public sector employees.
2. Can I take bereavement leave if the relative passed away outside the UAE?
Yes, UAE labour law grants bereavement leaves regardless of where the death occurs. If a close family member passes away abroad, you are still entitled to the leave.
3. Does bereavement leave applicable during the probation period?
Bereavement leave is not automatically granted during probation. Employers may allow it at their discretion or may permit the use of annual leave for such circumstances.
4. Is a death certificate required for compassionate leave?
Employers may request a death certificate or other proof of the relationship to validate your bereavement leave.
5. Does compassionate leave apply to free zone employees?
Employees in free zones are generally subject to the rules of their respective free zone authority. While some free zones align with the UAE Labour Law, others, like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), have their own regulations. It’s important to consult your employment contract or HR department for specific entitlements.
