In a major step to support family life, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Decree No. (31) of 2025, granting 10 working days of fully paid marriage leave to UAE national employees working in Dubai government entities.

Who Is Eligible?
The new decree applies to UAE nationals working in Dubai government departments, judicial bodies, military institutions (excluding candidates), and entities operating in special development zones and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The spouse must also be a UAE national, and the employee must have completed the required probation period.

Marriage Conditions.
To qualify for the leave, the marriage contract must be certified by a competent UAE authority and concluded after December 31, 2024. A copy of the contract must be submitted when applying for the leave. The leave can be used intermittently or continuously within one year from the date of the marriage.

Salary and Benefits.
Employees are entitled to their full gross salary, including allowances and financial benefits, during the marriage leave. In case of valid reasons and managerial approval, the leave—or any unused portion—can be carried over to the following year.

Additional Provisions.
Employees cannot be called to work during their marriage leave, except for military personnel if needed. If an employee is summoned for national or reserve service during this time, their unused leave can be deferred and used within one year after returning to work. Even if the employee is transferred to another government entity, they retain the right to use any remaining days of their marriage leave.

When Will It Take Effect?
The decree will officially come into effect on January 1, 2025, and overrides any conflicting provisions from previous legislation. The Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai will issue the necessary decisions to implement the decree.

This initiative highlights the UAE leadership’s commitment to strengthening family values and supporting the personal lives of government employees.