Dubai says ‘I do' to 10 days of paid marriage leave for Emirati couples
Image: Pexels.
Exciting news has just rolled in for all Emirati brides and grooms-to-be!
In a truly progressive move aimed at enhancing family stability and promoting a healthy work-life balance, Dubai has officially introduced a new law granting eligible Emirati government employees a full 10 working days of paid marriage leave.
That's right, ten days to celebrate new beginnings without the pressure of rushing back to work.
The initiative is nothing short of a win for Emirati couples and here's why: Promotes a healthy work-life balance: Couples can focus on enjoying their special time together without work responsibilities.
Couples can focus on enjoying their special time together without work responsibilities. Offers precious bonding time: Newlyweds can plan and adjust to life together, laying a strong foundation for their future.
Newlyweds can plan and adjust to life together, laying a strong foundation for their future. Encourages gender equality: Both partners are entitled to this leave, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to equal rights.
Both partners are entitled to this leave, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to equal rights. Reinforces mental well-being: The decree acknowledges the importance of mental health during a life-changing chapter.
The decree acknowledges the importance of mental health during a life-changing chapter. Reflects Dubai's family-first policies: It showcases the city's direction to prioritise family stability.
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Next
Stay
Close ✕
Legal expert Ahmed Elnaggar of Elnaggar & Partners said in an online report that the new marriage leave policy is a testament to the government's commitment to societal well-being.
"It aligns with the UAE's broader vision of cultivating positive societal values through legislative frameworks.'
He further emphasised that this initiative represents a forward-thinking leadership approach, reflective of how progressive societies evolve.
The regulation strikes a balance between targeted benefits and equality, as it applies to both men and women, and complements existing legal frameworks that prohibit gender-based discrimination.
While the decree currently encompasses Emirati government employees, Elnaggar said that it could extend to the private sector.
"Organisations can now offer more days of leave contractually, but not less, potentially paving the way for future employment standards," he added.
The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, vice president and prime minister of Dubai, to bolster personal fulfilment alongside professional duties.
The new law specifies that eligible employees must have completed their probation and their marriage must be to a fellow UAE citizen, with a certified contract dated post December 31, 2024. During the leave, employees will receive their full gross salary, including allowances and financial benefits.
For newlyweds, this period offers flexibility as they can use their marriage leave within one year from their wedding day, continuously or intermittently, ensuring they can fully cherish this special time.
This landmark decree enhances the cherished institution of marriage while advocating for emotional stability and a balanced lifestyle for Emirati couples. A true cause for celebration!

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

IOL News
a day ago
- IOL News
How much water does your washing machine and 10-minute shower use?
We break down how much water each appliance uses Image: Pexels Although the threat of Day Zero may feel like a distant memory, South Africa's water crisis is far from over. With average daily consumption sitting at 218 litres per person, which is well above the global average, reducing household demand remains critical. One of the best ways to save water starts at home: by understanding how much water our everyday appliances consume. Water use per appliance Washing machines are one of the biggest culprits in residential water usage, accounting for a staggering 23% of household water consumption. Depending on the model, the difference in water use per cycle can be dramatic. Beyond the laundry room, the following common appliances and activities show how quickly litres can add up: Showering Standard showers: 15 litres per minute Electric showers: 6 litres per minute A 10-minute standard shower can use 150 litres. Bathing A full bath uses around 80 litres Toilets Modern dual-flush: 4–6 litres per flush Older models: Up to 13 litres Leaking toilets can waste up to 400 litres per day Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Dishwashers New models: 14 litres per cycle On eco mode: As little as 10 litres Washing dishes by hand Running tap: 9 litres per minute Using a basin: 8 litres per wash Car washes Hosepipe: Up to 300 litres per wash Bucket: 30 litres Statistics According to a 2024 GCIS report on water and sanitation, South Africa is ranked among the 30 most water-scarce countries globally. South Africa sees an average daily water usage of 218 litres per person, far above the international benchmark of 173 litres. For those serious about conservation, one can do a simple water meter test: compare readings before and after using a specific appliance. To do this successfully, ensure that no other water use is in between. You can also try tweaking your daily routines. Small changes, like switching appliances and fixing leaks, can result in significant savings. IOL

IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
Dubai says ‘I do' to 10 days of paid marriage leave for Emirati couples
Dubai's new marriage leave law means less stress for newlyweds - 10 days of full salary leave to kick off married life in style. Image: Pexels. Exciting news has just rolled in for all Emirati brides and grooms-to-be! In a truly progressive move aimed at enhancing family stability and promoting a healthy work-life balance, Dubai has officially introduced a new law granting eligible Emirati government employees a full 10 working days of paid marriage leave. That's right, ten days to celebrate new beginnings without the pressure of rushing back to work. The initiative is nothing short of a win for Emirati couples and here's why: Promotes a healthy work-life balance: Couples can focus on enjoying their special time together without work responsibilities. Couples can focus on enjoying their special time together without work responsibilities. Offers precious bonding time: Newlyweds can plan and adjust to life together, laying a strong foundation for their future. Newlyweds can plan and adjust to life together, laying a strong foundation for their future. Encourages gender equality: Both partners are entitled to this leave, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to equal rights. Both partners are entitled to this leave, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to equal rights. Reinforces mental well-being: The decree acknowledges the importance of mental health during a life-changing chapter. The decree acknowledges the importance of mental health during a life-changing chapter. Reflects Dubai's family-first policies: It showcases the city's direction to prioritise family stability. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Legal expert Ahmed Elnaggar of Elnaggar & Partners said in an online report that the new marriage leave policy is a testament to the government's commitment to societal well-being. "It aligns with the UAE's broader vision of cultivating positive societal values through legislative frameworks.' He further emphasised that this initiative represents a forward-thinking leadership approach, reflective of how progressive societies evolve. The regulation strikes a balance between targeted benefits and equality, as it applies to both men and women, and complements existing legal frameworks that prohibit gender-based discrimination. While the decree currently encompasses Emirati government employees, Elnaggar said that it could extend to the private sector. "Organisations can now offer more days of leave contractually, but not less, potentially paving the way for future employment standards," he added. The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, vice president and prime minister of Dubai, to bolster personal fulfilment alongside professional duties. The new law specifies that eligible employees must have completed their probation and their marriage must be to a fellow UAE citizen, with a certified contract dated post December 31, 2024. During the leave, employees will receive their full gross salary, including allowances and financial benefits. For newlyweds, this period offers flexibility as they can use their marriage leave within one year from their wedding day, continuously or intermittently, ensuring they can fully cherish this special time. This landmark decree enhances the cherished institution of marriage while advocating for emotional stability and a balanced lifestyle for Emirati couples. A true cause for celebration!

IOL News
7 days ago
- IOL News
Warm up with style: the soup board trend taking winter by storm
The soup board is a fanatic, winter-perfect creation that's taking over kitchens, cafes and social media feeds alike. Image: Pexels/Nadin Sh Once upon a time, soup was the ultimate symbol of simplicity - a warm bowl of comfort, often served with nothing more than a slice of buttered toast or a crusty roll. It was the go-to for sick days, cold evenings and quick homemade meals. But in the era of viral food trends and Instagrammable aesthetics, even this humble dish has undergone a glow-up. Enter the soup board - a fanatic, winter-perfect creation that's taking over kitchens, cafes and social media feeds alike. Also known as soup flights, soup boards are essentially curated assortments of multiple soups served in small portions, laid out beautifully on a board or tray and paired with an assortment of dippers, toppings and sides. Much like the butter board and charcuterie trends that came before them, soup boards are about more than just flavour - they're about experience, indulgence and most of all, presentation. Why settle for one soup when you can taste three - or even five? That's the philosophy behind soup flights. Each board typically features a variety of small soup servings: think creamy tomato bisque, rich butternut, classic chicken noodle, spicy lentil or wild mushroom. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ What elevates a soup board from a casual meal to a food moment is the ensemble of accompaniments. From mini grilled cheese sliders and rosemary focaccia slices to sourdough croutons, herb butters, flavoured oils, crispy chickpeas, charcuterie and even wine or beer pairings - the combinations are endless and cater to both comfort and creativity. The popularity of soup boards this winter can be credited to a few things. First, there's the obvious: soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. It's warm, nourishing and endlessly adaptable. But soup boards go a step further by making the meal interactive and fun. They also tap into the visual culture of food - these boards are undeniably photogenic. A spread of vibrant soups in shades of orange, green, red, and gold, surrounded by rustic breads, garnishes and steaming bowls, is practically begging to be snapped and shared on TikTok, Instagram or Pinterest. For restaurants and home entertainers alike, soup boards offer a perfect balance of cosy and chic. Several eateries have already embraced the trend, adding soup flights to their winter menus and pairing them with local breads and curated toppings. While some soup boards on social media look like they belong in a high-end bistro, the trend is surprisingly accessible. You don't need a chef's budget or hours of preparation time. Leftovers can easily be repurposed, and supermarket soup can be elevated with thoughtful garnishes and sides. Add a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of herbs or some crushed nuts on top, and you've got gourmet in minutes. It's also an ideal setup for entertaining. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, a book club, or a cosy family night, a soup board caters to varied tastes and dietary preferences. Gluten-free? Vegan? No problem - just mix and match your soup selections and toppings accordingly.