Can I be dismissed for pregnancy or maternity leave in the UAE?

No — under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), an employer may not terminate a female employee, or serve her notice of termination, because she is pregnant or has taken maternity leave. The law treats pregnancy and maternity as protected grounds, so a dismissal connected to your pregnancy or your use of maternity leave can be challenged as unlawful. This protection covers the period around taking the leave and is designed to stop employers from pushing out staff for becoming pregnant. If you are dismissed and the real reason appears to be your pregnancy or maternity leave, you may be entitled to compensation for arbitrary dismissal in addition to your other end-of-service rights. Keep written records — emails, medical reports and any termination notice — as evidence. The first formal step is to file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which can refer unresolved disputes onward. Because these cases turn on evidence, you can also compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI experienced in employment disputes.