Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai

In Dubai, the sick leave attestation process is a crucial legal step for employees who need to verify their medical leave. The attestation serves as an official endorsement that the medical certificate or report is genuine and issued by an authorized healthcare facility. Whether you’re an expatriate employee or a UAE national, understanding how sick leave attestation in Dubai works is essential for ensuring your absence from work is legally recognized.

What Is Sick Leave Attestation?

Sick leave attestation is the formal procedure through which a medical certificate issued by a doctor or hospital is verified and approved by the UAE Ministry of Health (MOH) or the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). This process ensures that the document is authentic and valid for use in employment-related or legal matters.

Without attestation, a medical leave certificate may not be accepted by your employer, especially for extended absences.

Why Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai Is Important

The UAE government enforces strict verification procedures to maintain workplace transparency and prevent fake medical claims. Sick leave attestation in Dubai plays an essential role in:

Validating medical leave issued by licensed healthcare providers
Ensuring compliance with Dubai’s labor and health regulations
Preventing fraudulent leave claims in private and public sectors
Protecting employees’ legal rights in case of disputes
Facilitating visa renewal and work permit processes

Authorities Responsible for Sick Leave Attestation

In Dubai, attestation of sick leave documents is primarily handled by the following authorities:

Dubai Health Authority (DHA): For employees treated within Dubai.
Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP): For other Emirates outside Dubai.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA): For documents that will be used outside the UAE.

Each of these authorities ensures that the sick leave attestation process follows UAE’s official legal standards.

Step-by-Step Process of Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai

Here’s how you can get your sick leave attested in Dubai:

Step 1: Obtain a Medical Certificate

Visit a DHA-approved hospital or clinic to get your medical report or sick leave certificate. Ensure that it includes:

Your full name and Emirates ID
Diagnosis and medical findings
Recommended rest duration
Doctor’s name, signature, and clinic stamp

Step 2: Apply for Online Attestation

You can apply for sick leave attestation online via the DHA e-services portal. Upload the required documents and pay the applicable fees (usually between AED 50–AED 150).

Step 3: Review by DHA or MOH

The health authority reviews your application to verify that it’s issued by a licensed medical facility. The process may take 1–3 working days.

Step 4: Receive Attested Certificate

Once verified, you will receive the attested document electronically or stamped physically, depending on your chosen option. This certificate can then be submitted to your employer or government department.

Documents Required for Sick Leave Attestation

To complete the sick leave attestation in Dubai, prepare the following documents:

Original medical certificate
Copy of your Emirates ID or passport
Employer’s request letter (if applicable)
Hospital or clinic license (for verification)
Payment proof for attestation fee

Where to Apply for Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai

You can complete your attestation through one of the following channels:

Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Smart App or Portal
Typing centers authorized by DHA
MOFA Attestation Centers for international use
Customer Happiness Centers across Dubai

Sick Leave Duration and UAE Labor Law

According to UAE Labor Law (Federal Decree No. 33 of 2021), an employee is entitled to a maximum of 90 days of sick leave per year, after the probation period ends. However, the payment depends on the length of the leave:

First 15 days: Full salary
Next 30 days: Half salary
Beyond 45 days: Unpaid leave

It is mandatory to submit an attested sick leave certificate to claim paid leave benefits.

How to Check the Status of Your Sick Leave Attestation

Once you’ve applied, you can track your sick leave attestation status via the DHA online portal. Enter your application reference number, and the system will show whether your document has been approved or requires further verification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While applying for sick leave attestation in Dubai, many employees make small errors that can delay approval. Avoid these mistakes:

Submitting medical reports from non-DHA-approved clinics
Missing doctor’s signatures or stamps
Uploading unclear scanned copies
Providing incomplete personal details

Double-check your documents before submission to avoid unnecessary rejections.

Sick Leave Attestation Fees

The sick leave attestation fee varies depending on the authority and urgency. As of 2025, the approximate fees are:

Standard DHA attestation: AED 50–AED 100
Urgent processing: AED 150 or higher
MOFA attestation (if required): AED 150

Payment can be made online or at DHA-authorized centers.

Key Benefits of Getting Sick Leave Attested

Official recognition of medical absence
Smooth employer acceptance of your leave
Eligibility for sick pay benefits
Legal protection under UAE labor law
Peace of mind knowing your documents are authentic

Conclusion

The process of sick leave attestation in Dubai is not just a bureaucratic formality—it’s a safeguard for both employers and employees. By getting your medical certificates attested through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or MOFA, you ensure full compliance with UAE regulations. It helps maintain transparency, prevents misuse of sick leave policies, and protects your rights as an employee.

So, if you ever need to take medical leave in Dubai, make sure your documents go through the official sick leave attestation process — because only then will they be legally recognized and accepted.