Understanding Hajj Leave for UAE Private Sector Employees

Apr 9, 2026

67 min

Apr 9, 2026 08:30

Hajj leave in UAE private sector: Everything you need to know

## What is Hajj Leave?

In the UAE, private sector employees can apply for special leave to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. This leave is governed by the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) and is distinct from other types of leave. It is typically unpaid, can last up to 30 days, and is granted only once during employment with the same employer.

## Rules for Free Zones

Employees in financial free zones, such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), have specific regulations. In DIFC, Muslim employees with at least one year of service can take up to 21 days of unpaid leave. In ADGM, the leave can extend to 30 days, also requiring a year of service.

## Application Process

To apply for Hajj leave, employees should submit a formal request to their manager or HR department well in advance. Supporting documents, such as Hajj registration confirmation, may be required. It's important to plan your workload and agree to any conditions set by your employer to ensure a smooth transition.

## Important Considerations

Hajj leave is not automatically granted and depends on company policies and operational needs. Since it is unpaid, financial planning is crucial. Additionally, the leave duration may vary based on employer approval, and company policies cannot exceed legal limits.

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