Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai | Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve taken medical leave from work in the UAE, you’ll need Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai to validate your medical certificate for official acceptance. The UAE government strictly requires that all sick leave certificates exceeding two days must be attested by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) to be recognized by employers, insurance providers, and government entities.

The attestation process ensures that your medical documents are genuine, issued by licensed healthcare providers, and comply with UAE labour and health regulations.

What Is Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai?

Sick Leave Attestation is the official process of verifying a medical certificate to confirm its authenticity. It validates that the doctor’s note or medical report was issued by a MOHAP-licensed or DHA-registered healthcare facility.

Once attested, your certificate becomes legally valid for:

• Employer submission for sick leave approval.

• Salary protection or leave encashment claims.

• Medical insurance reimbursement.

• Official HR or immigration documentation.

Without attestation, the certificate is considered invalid under UAE labour laws and may not be accepted by your employer.

Why Sick Leave Attestation Is Important

Getting your sick leave certificate attested in Dubai is mandatory if your medical leave exceeds two consecutive days.

Here’s why it matters:

1. Legal Recognition: Proves that your leave was due to a genuine medical condition.

2. Employer Compliance: Ensures that your HR department can officially record your sick leave.

3. Insurance Claims: Many insurance companies require attested medical documents before processing reimbursements.

4. Labour Law Requirement: UAE Labour Law mandates attested documentation for sick leaves longer than 48 hours.

5. Avoid Penalties: Submitting unverified or fake medical certificates can result in fines or job penalties.

Who Issues the Sick Leave Certificate

Only licensed healthcare providers can issue a valid sick leave certificate in Dubai. These include:

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA)-approved hospitals and clinics

• MOHAP-accredited medical centers

• Private clinics registered with DHA or MOHAP

• Government hospitals

Before requesting attestation, make sure the medical facility is authorized and the doctor is licensed under UAE regulations.

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

The Sick Leave Attestation process involves three major stages — issuance, submission, and approval.

Step 1: Get a Medical Certificate

Visit a MOHAP or DHA-approved clinic and consult a licensed physician. After the check-up, the doctor will issue a medical certificate specifying your diagnosis, recommended rest period, and official stamp.

Step 2: Submit the Certificate for Attestation

You can submit the certificate to MOHAP for attestation. This can be done:

• Online via the MOHAP portal

• Through the MOHAP smart app

• At an authorized healthcare facility or typing center

Step 3: Pay the Attestation Fee

MOHAP charges a small attestation fee, typically around AED 50–70, depending on the service channel used.

Step 4: Receive MOHAP Approval

After submission, MOHAP reviews the document for authenticity. If everything is valid, the certificate will be digitally attested and marked as “Approved.” You can then download or print the attested version for submission to your employer.

Sick Leave Attestation Through MOHAP Portal

MOHAP offers a convenient online system for digital attestation.

How to Apply Online:

1. Visit the MOHAP official website.

2. Go to the “Attestation of Medical Certificates” section.

3. Upload your medical certificate and Emirates ID.

4. Pay the required service fee.

5. Track your application using the reference number.

Once approved, you’ll receive the attested document electronically via email or the online portal.

Sick Leave Attestation for DHA and Private Facilities

If your certificate is issued by a DHA-licensed clinic, it must first be verified by DHA before submission to MOHAP.

Procedure:

1. DHA verifies the document within 1–2 working days.

2. Once verified, MOHAP completes the attestation.

3. You receive the final approved document digitally.

This dual verification ensures that only licensed practitioners issue valid medical certificates.

Required Documents for Sick Leave Attestation

When applying for sick leave certificate attestation in Dubai, ensure you have:

• Original medical certificate from a licensed doctor.

• Copy of Emirates ID or passport.

• Resident visa page (if applicable).

• Work permit or company ID (optional, for HR submission).

Submitting incomplete or unverified certificates may delay approval.

Processing Time and Fees

The attestation process is quick and efficient.

• Processing Time: 1–3 working days.

• Service Fee: AED 50 to AED 70 (depending on the mode of submission).

• Validity: The attested certificate is permanently valid for legal and employment purposes.

MOHAP also provides urgent attestation services, processed within 24 hours for an additional charge.

How Employers Use Attested Sick Leave Certificates

Once your sick leave certificate is attested, it can be submitted to your employer’s HR department for:

• Approving paid or unpaid medical leave.

• Claiming salary entitlements during illness.

• Supporting medical insurance reimbursement claims.

• Recording official absence documentation.

Employers can verify the certificate through MOHAP’s database to confirm its authenticity.

Common Reasons for Attestation Rejection

Attestation may be delayed or rejected if:

• The certificate is issued by an unlicensed clinic.

• The doctor’s license number is missing.

• There are mismatched details (name, Emirates ID).

• The submission is made after the allowed time frame.

To prevent this, always obtain medical certificates from registered healthcare providers and submit them within 3 working days of issuance.

Tips for Smooth Sick Leave Attestation

1. Check clinic licensing before your appointment.

2. Submit the certificate early to avoid delays.

3. Verify all personal details are correctly spelled.

4. Keep digital copies of the attested document for future reference.

5. Avoid handwritten certificates; only typed and stamped forms are accepted.

Final Thoughts

Completing Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai is a crucial legal step to ensure your medical certificate is valid under UAE law. It protects your employment rights, ensures compliance with health regulations, and prevents disputes with employers regarding unpaid leave.

Whether processed online via MOHAP or through an authorized medical facility, attesting your sick leave certificate is simple, fast, and essential. Always verify your healthcare provider’s license and submit your certificate promptly to enjoy a hassle-free approval experience.

Proper sick leave attestation not only safeguards your job but also upholds transparency between employees, employers, and the UAE’s health authorities.