How is maternity leave pay calculated in the UAE?

Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), maternity leave of 60 days is not paid at a single flat rate. The first 45 days are paid at your full wage, and the following 15 days are paid at half your wage. After the 60 days, if you need more time off due to a pregnancy- or birth-related illness supported by a medical report, the law allows additional leave that is unpaid, and separate provisions apply where the child is sick or has a disability. The full-wage and half-wage calculation is based on your wage as defined in your contract, so confirm whether your employer is applying the correct wage figure. Maternity pay is a statutory protection, and your employer cannot substitute a lower amount or refuse it because of your length of service. If the pay you receive does not match the 45-day full and 15-day half structure, ask for a written breakdown and, if unresolved, contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI can help review it.