Emirati employees working for the Dubai government are now entitled to 10 working days of fully paid marriage leave under a new decree issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The decree, No. 31 of 2025, aims to support family cohesion, promote psychological well-being, and enhance work–life balance for UAE nationals employed in government roles across the emirate.
The new directive applies to Emiratis working in all Dubai government entities, including those within special development zones and free zones. It also extends to judicial and military personnel, though cadets are excluded.
To be eligible, employees must have completed their probationary period and be marrying another UAE national. Additionally, the marriage contract must be certified within the UAE and dated after December 31 of the previous year.
Employees are required to submit their marriage certificate once when applying for the leave. The 10-day leave can be taken in one stretch or in parts, provided it is used within one year from the date of marriage. During this period, employees will receive their full gross salary, inclusive of all allowances and financial benefits.
Government departments are not permitted to assign work to employees during their marriage leave, with the exception of military personnel, who may be called upon in cases of necessity. If an employee is called for national service or required to attend a promotional course during the leave period, any unused portion of the marriage leave can be deferred and taken at a later date.
Officials say the move is part of a broader strategy to improve the quality of life for UAE nationals and ensure government workplaces remain supportive of employees’ personal milestones.
The decree comes amid wider efforts by Dubai’s leadership to modernize HR policies and create more flexible, family-friendly work environments across the public sector.
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