If you’re preparing to go on the sacred journey of Hajj this year and you work in the UAE, you might be wondering how to manage time off work. Can you take leave? How long can it be? What’s the process? And what if it overlaps with public holidays? We’ve got all the answers lined up for you, nice and simple. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.
Also read: Next UAE Public Holiday: Eid Al Adha
Is Hajj Leave Allowed For Employees in the UAE?
Definitely – but there are a few important things to keep in mind. In the private sector, employees can request unpaid leave to go for Hajj. This isn’t a guaranteed right like annual leave, but companies can approve it. Here’s how it generally works:
- The leave is unpaid
- You can get up to 30 days
- It’s a once-in-a-career type of leave – only allowed once while you’re with the same company
This kind of leave isn’t specifically written into the general UAE Labour Law, but many companies still offer it based on mutual understanding between the employee and employer.
Special Rules For DIFC & ADGM Employees
If you work in a free zone like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) or Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), there are more clear and specific rules in place:
DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)
- Muslim employees who’ve completed at least 1 year of service can take up to 21 days of unpaid leave for Hajj
- This leave is granted once only during their time with the company
- The rule is outlined in DIFC Law No. 2 of 2019 (Article 33)
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)
- Muslim employees with 1 year of continuous work can take up to 30 calendar days of unpaid leave
- This is also a one-time leave for the purpose of performing Hajj
So, depending on where you work, the number of days might vary slightly – but the good news is, both zones officially allow it.
Step-By-Step: How To Request Hajj Leave
Ready to apply for Hajj leave? Here’s a basic guide you can follow. Just remember, each company might have its own internal process, so always check with HR.
- Submit a request early: Because Hajj leave can be up to 30 days, give your employer plenty of notice.
- Write it down: Whether it’s a formal letter or a request through the HR portal, put it in writing.
- Attach the proof: Include documents that show your intention to perform Hajj – this could be a confirmation of registration or travel bookings.
- Wait for the green light: Your employer has to approve it before it’s official.
- Agree on expectations: Some companies might ask you to hand over your work or wrap things up before you leave – that’s totally normal.
What If Public Holidays Fall During Your Hajj Leave?
This one depends on the type of leave you’re using:
Are You Using Your Annual Leave?
If you’re taking Hajj leave using your paid annual leave, any public holiday that falls within your leave still counts as part of your leave days. In other words, it doesn’t extend your time off. That’s based on Article 29(7) of the UAE Labour Law.
Or Are You Using Unpaid Hajj Leave?
If you’re on special unpaid leave just for Hajj, public holidays usually don’t make a difference – the full unpaid leave period still applies as agreed.
Key Dates To Know for 2025 Hajj
Hajj takes place in the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah, and it often overlaps with two major Islamic holidays:
- Arafah Day – 9th Dhu Al Hijjah (Predicted on Thursday, June 5, 2025)
- Eid Al Adha – 10th to 12th Dhu Al Hijjah (Predicted to start on Friday, June 6, 2025 and end Sunday, June 8, 2025)
In the UAE, that means you can expect a four-day public holiday from June 5 to June 8, according to predictions from the Emirates Astronomy Society. If your Hajj leave falls during this time, it’s worth factoring those dates into your plans.
Always Check With Your Company
Since different workplaces have different leave policies, it’s best to speak to your manager/boss/HR team to find out exactly what you need to do. Whether you’re in the private sector, DIFC, or ADGM, planning ahead helps make your spiritual journey stress-free and smooth.
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