UAE Pregnancy Laws: Quick Facts for 2025

If you’re expecting a baby in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll want to know what the law says about your rights, medical care, and leave. The UAE has strict family rules, but it also offers solid protection for pregnant women, both locals and expatriates. Below is a simple rundown that helps you avoid surprises and plan your pregnancy with confidence.

Basic Rights for Pregnant Women

First off, any woman who is legally employed in the UAE is entitled to maternity leave. The standard package is 45 days of paid leave – 30 days before the expected delivery date and 15 days after. If you need extra time, you can use your annual leave, but the paid part stays at 45 days.

During those 45 days, the employer must continue paying at least 100% of your salary. For women working in the private sector, the law also requires the employer to cover all medically necessary prenatal check‑ups, lab tests, and the delivery itself – either through a government‑approved health insurance plan or a private one the company provides.

Another important point: you cannot be dismissed because you’re pregnant. The law classifies termination during pregnancy as illegal, and any employer who fires a pregnant employee can face fines and compensation claims. If you notice any unfair treatment, you can report it to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

Special Rules for Foreign Residents

Expats often wonder if the same rules apply to them. The answer is yes – as long as you have a valid work contract and health insurance that meets UAE standards, you receive the same maternity benefits as Emirati workers.

Most companies include maternity coverage in the mandatory health insurance that every resident must have. If your insurer doesn’t cover prenatal care, you can ask your employer to upgrade the plan. In many cases, the cost of the upgrade is shared between the employee and employer.

One nuance for foreign women is the need for a medical fitness test when you first arrive in the UAE. This test checks for any conditions that could affect your ability to work, but it does not impact your right to maternity leave later on.

Lastly, if you plan to give birth in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you’ll need to register the birth with the local health authority within 30 days. The process is straightforward: bring your passports, marriage certificate, and the baby’s birth certificate to the department of health. This registration is essential for getting a birth visa for your child, which allows the baby to stay in the UAE legally.

Bottom line: the UAE protects pregnant workers, but you have to stay on top of paperwork, insurance, and your employer’s policies. Keep copies of all medical receipts, ask HR for a clear maternity leave letter, and double‑check your health insurance coverage before your due date. With the right prep, you can focus on the excitement of welcoming your new family member instead of legal headaches.