Infected workers in epidemics to keep pay, leave under new UAE law

Employees infected with communicable diseases during an epidemic or pandemic will be prohibited from attending work without losing their salaries or leave entitlements under amendments to the UAE's federal law on combating communicable diseases approved by the Federal National Council. The period during which an employee is prevented from working because of infection will not affect their salary, wages or any statutory leave entitlements, ensuring workers are not financially disadvantaged for complying with public health measures. The revised law is part of efforts to strengthen national preparedness and response mechanisms for infectious disease outbreaks by establishing clear legal obligations for individuals, employers and authorities.