Skip to content

Connecting business. Building understanding. Advancing peace.

Daily BriefVerify a certificateDue Diligence
Become a Member

UAE updates sick leave rules shifting certification responsibility to healthcare providers

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention has reformed the statutory sick leave attestation framework under the federal Zero Bureaucracy program. Licensed healthcare providers are now directly responsible for certifying and transmitting digital medical leave attestations to employers.

Published Source: Arabian Business
Issuing authority
Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP)
Jurisdiction
United Arab Emirates
Publication date
November 5, 2026
Stage
Final rule
Illustration: A modern clinic reception desk in the United Arab Emirates with a doctor using a digital tablet for paperwork, clean editorial corporate
Illustration

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has overhauled the statutory sick leave attestation and validation framework governing employers and employees, Arabian Business reported.

Under the updated regulations, the procedural responsibility for submitting and certifying medical absences has shifted from patients and employees directly to licensed healthcare providers. The reform was introduced as part of the federal government's Zero Bureaucracy program aimed at eliminating redundant administrative procedures across the labor and healthcare sectors.

Healthcare facilities are now required to validate, record, and transmit electronic medical leave certificates directly to employers using unified digital platforms. According to the report, this change reduces administrative paperwork and accelerates processing times for companies managing employee health leave compliance.

Sources

More from Policy & Legal Updates

View all
Policy & Legal Updates
Source: The National

Dubai Issues Regulations for Five-Year Multiple-Entry Tourism Loyalty Scheme

Dubai authorities have issued regulations for the 'Dubai Access Club', an invitation-only membership program linked to a five-year multiple-entry visa. The visa permits business or leisure stays of up to 90 days annually for successful applicants. The initiative operates via partner nominations, including airlines and hospitality groups, in support of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Emirates 24|7

UAE Labour Authorities Outline Lawful Conditions for Employer Salary Deductions

UAE labour authorities have outlined the statutory circumstances where employers are permitted to deduct wages under federal labour law. Lawful deductions include approved savings fund subscriptions, disciplinary penalties, excess wage recovery, and court-ordered debt settlements. The guidance aims to assist private-sector employers and payroll teams in maintaining statutory compliance.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer

China’s NDRC Issues Updated Administrative Measures for Outbound Direct Investment

China's National Development and Reform Commission has issued new Administrative Measures for Outbound Investment, which take effect on December 1, 2026. The new framework replaces NDRC Order No. 11 and codifies procedural requirements for Chinese enterprises investing abroad, including in the UAE. The measures retain a risk-based review structure while streamlining verification for eligible non-sensitive outbound transactions.

The UECN Brief

Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.

Language
Subscriptions

Double opt-in: we send a confirmation link. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy