Medical Certificate for Sick Leave in UAE

In the United Arab Emirates, acquiring a Medical Certificate for Sick Leave is not just a mere formality. It plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This guide is designed to simplify a potentially confusing process. By emphasizing clarity, we tackle frequently asked questions and provide easy-to-follow solutions, guaranteeing a smooth experience in obtaining your medical certificate.

What is a medical certificate in UAE?

A medical certificate is a significant document issued by a doctor or healthcare professional, which verifies that an individual has undergone a medical examination and is currently experiencing a state of ill health or injury. This certificate typically provides details about the nature of the illness or injury and suggests a period of rest or leave from work or school. It serves as an official proof for employers or educational institutions to validate an individual's absence due to health-related reasons. This document often outlines the specific condition(s) of the illness or injury and recommends a duration of rest or time off from work or education. It acts as an official record that employers or educational institutions may utilize to support an employee's absence on medical grounds.

What is Sick Leave?

Sick leave refers to the period in which an employee is permitted to be absent from work due to health concerns. This designated time is specifically allocated for the employee to recuperate from sickness or address a medical condition. Employers provide sick leave as a component of employee benefits, acknowledging that there are instances when employees must prioritize their health without the additional burden of work obligations. Throughout sick leave, employees can concentrate on receiving appropriate medical care and rest, both of which are crucial for their overall well-being and recovery.

Why Do You Need a Medical Certificate for a Sick Leave?

Is it a requirement set by the employer?

A medical certificate is commonly required when taking sick leave. Employers seek this certificate for a number of important reasons. These reasons are as follows:

• Employers want to validate that an employee is really sick and unfit for work before approving their leave request.
• It assists in preventing employees from abusing sick leave by taking time off without a valid reason.
• Ensuring that employees do not transmit contagious illnesses to their colleagues can be advantageous.

Is it necessary as per UAE Labour Law?

As per Article 31 of the UAE Labour Law, it is required for an employee to inform their employer about their illness within a period of three days and provide a medical report from a healthcare facility.
Apart from the UAE Labour Law, other regulations that govern sick leave in the UAE. For instance, the Dubai Health Authority has implemented a policy mandating employees who exceed five days of sick leave to obtain a medical certificate that is attested by the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

Does it increase the chances of acceptance of sick leave?

Submitting a medical certificate along with your sick leave application can enhance the likelihood of approval. This demonstrates to your employer your commitment to addressing your health issue and improving your health condition.
Under what conditions, you need to obtain a medical certificate?

• Digestive disorders like food poisoning or gastroenteritis
• The flu or the common cold
• Respiratory conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia
• Muscle and bone injuries, like sprains and strains
• Mental health issues include depression and anxiety
• Chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes

In case of uncertainty regarding the necessity of a medical certificate for sick leave, it is advisable to seek guidance from either your physician or the HR department.

How to Get a Medical Certificate for Sick Leave in UAE

To obtain a medical certificate for sick leave in the UAE, it is imperative to consult a licensed healthcare provider, such as a doctor or physician. Following this, a comprehensive medical examination must be undergone, resulting in the acquisition of a legal document that outlines the specific ailment and its impact on your ability to work. This certificate serves as an official record that your employer requires to validate your illness and approve your request for sick time.

Healthcare professionals who are licensed to administer medical treatment have the authority to issue medical certificates for sick leave, such as:

• Hospitals: General hospitals, specialty hospitals, and hospital-based clinics can provide medical certificates.
• Doctors: Private clinics, medical centers, and individual doctors’ offices can also issue medical certificates.
• Government Health Centers: Health centers by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) can also provide medical certificates.

What is the process to obtain a medical certificate?

• Visit: Visit a licensed medical center or clinic.
• Explain your medical condition: Kindly explain your illness or medical condition to the healthcare provider, providing comprehensive information about your symptoms, the duration of your illness, and any pertinent medical history associated with your condition.
• Go through a medical checkup: The doctor will perform a thorough examination to evaluate your health status and evaluate how it affects your capacity to work. This could include physical assessments, medical tests, or referrals to specialists as needed.
• Ask for the medical certificate: After the examination, the healthcare professional will provide you with a medical certificate. This certificate will generally contain your personal information, the date of the examination, the diagnosis, and a declaration regarding your work capacity or the suggested period of medical leave.

Can I take sick leave without a UAE Medical Certificate?

In certain instances, your employer might approve a self-declaration or an oral explanation of your illness for brief sick leave, usually lasting up to two days. Nevertheless, for extended periods of absence or repeated sick leave, a medical certificate is usually necessary. The UAE Labour Law stipulates a medical certificate for sick leave exceeding three days.

Sick Leaves as per the UAE Labour Law

As per Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law, employees have the right to avail themselves of a maximum of 90 days of sick leave annually. This sick leave can be utilized either consecutively or sporadically.

Staff members qualify for sick leave when they are incapable of performing their duties due to sickness or injury, encompassing both physical and mental health issues.

In cases where an employee requires more sick leave beyond the 90 days stipulated by law, they might have the option to take extra leave without pay. Nevertheless, this decision rests with the employer.

Can we carry forward the unused sick leave to following year?

Sick leave does not carry over to the following year; any unused sick leave will be lost at the end of the service year.

Email Template For Sick Leave

Subject: Request for Sick Leave – [Your Full Name]

Dear [Sir/Madam/Manager’s Name],

I trust this message reaches you in good health. I am reaching out to notify you that regrettably, I have fallen sick and must take a sick leave to recover. Following my doctor's advice, I am required to rest and prioritize my health for the next [number of days] days.

I have enclosed my medical certificate, in accordance with company policy, outlining the specifics of my condition and the recommended duration of rest.

While I am away, I will ensure that my duties are taken care of. I have briefed [Colleague’s Name] on my ongoing projects and tasks. [Colleague’s Name] has graciously agreed to manage my responsibilities during this period. If any urgent matters arise, I will be reachable for consultation via email.

I apologize for any inconvenience my absence may cause and appreciate your understanding and support during this time. I intend to return to work fully recovered by [return date].

Thank you for your understanding. Kindly inform me if any additional information or arrangements are required.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Number]