Bereavement leave

What Is A Bereavement Leave?

Bereavement leave, also known as compassionate leave, is a type of leave of absence granted to employees in the event of a family member's death. This policy allows employees to take a temporary leave of absence from work to grieve, make necessary arrangements, and attend the funeral or memorial service of a close family member. 

The purpose of bereavement leave is to provide employees with the necessary time and space to cope with their loss without the added stress of work responsibilities. The duration of bereavement leaves may vary depending on company policies and local labor laws. It is considered a compassionate gesture from employers to support their employees during a difficult and emotionally challenging period.

Types of leaves:

• Adverse Weather Leave
• Annual Leave
• Casual Leaves
• Compensatory Leave
• Leave Of Absence
• Leave of Religious Observance
• Maternity Leave
• Medical Leave Of Absence
• Parental Leave
• Paternity Leave
• Sabbatical Leave
• Sick Leave

Who Is Considered Immediate Family For Bereavement Leaves In Uae And Saudi Arabia?

In both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, immediate family members for bereavement leave typically include spouses, parents, and children, both adopted and biological, siblings, grandparents, in-laws, or guardians.

Is Bereavement Leave paid? 

The extent of bereavement pay can vary from full salary to partial compensation or unpaid leave, depending on an employer’s specific policies. Employees need to familiarize themselves with their organization's bereavement policies to know their entitlements and the process for requesting such leave. 

What Is The Bereavement Law In Saudi Arabia And The UAE?

In the UAE, employees are entitled to a paid bereavement leave for five (5) days in case of the death of their spouse, and a leave of three (3) days in the instance of the death of their parent, child, sibling, grandparents, or grandchildren.

By Article (113) of the Saudi Labor Law, employees shall be entitled to a five-day leave with full pay in the event of the death of a spouse or a parent or children/grandchildren. 

How To Create A Bereavement Leave Policy?

• Decide how many days of leave will be granted, and whether this leave will be paid, unpaid, or partially paid.
• Offer counseling and emotional support.
• Clearly define policies, eligibility, the process of requesting it, or any other documentation needed.
• Allow flexibility where appropriate.
• Encourage a workplace culture of empathy. 
• Ensure that policies comply with any legal requirements or regulations.

Bereavement leave is a compassionate policy that not only supports employees during difficult times but also demonstrates the company's commitment to their well-being. By offering this benefit and understanding this policy, employees can navigate these sensitive situations with clarity and employers can demonstrate empathy and support for their employees.