How much compassionate or bereavement leave do I get in the UAE?

Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), private-sector employees are entitled to paid compassionate (bereavement) leave on the death of a close family member. The entitlement is 5 days in the event of the death of a spouse, and 3 days in the event of the death of a parent, child, sibling, grandchild, or grandparent. This leave is paid, so your wage continues during the period. The bereavement-leave days are separate from your annual leave and should not be deducted from your annual-leave balance. Employers may ask for documentation such as a death certificate to process the leave. The purpose is to give employees time to grieve and handle immediate family matters without losing pay. If your employer refuses to grant the correct number of compassionate-leave days, you can request the entitlement in writing and, if it remains denied, raise it with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). For help, you can also consult verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI.