Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai is an essential process for employees and residents who need to validate their medical certificates for official or employment purposes. The Sick leave attestation confirms that your medical document is genuine and has been approved by the relevant health and government authorities in the UAE.

When an employee is absent due to illness, a medical certificate from a recognized hospital or clinic is required. However, before this document can be submitted to an employer, government department, or visa authority, it must go through an attestation process to confirm its authenticity.

Why Sick Leave Attestation is Important

Attestation serves as official proof that your medical certificate is valid and issued by a licensed practitioner. Without Sick leave attestation, your medical document may not be accepted by employers or authorities. Some of the key reasons include:

• To ensure the authenticity of your medical leave certificate.

• Required for official leave approval from your employer.

• Necessary for legal and visa-related purposes.

• Helps maintain compliance with UAE labour and health laws.

• Confirms the credibility of your medical institution.

Where to Get Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai

The attestation process involves several authorities. The main departments responsible for Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai include:

1. Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – Verifies medical certificates issued by Dubai hospitals or clinics.

2. Ministry of Health (MOH) – For certificates issued outside Dubai but within the UAE.

3. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) – Final attestation step confirming the authenticity for international or governmental use.

Each department plays a crucial role in ensuring that the document is valid and properly authorized.

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

Here’s how you can complete the Sick leave attestation process efficiently:

1. Obtain a Valid Medical Certificate

   • Get your sick leave certificate from a DHA-approved or MOH-approved healthcare provider.

   • Ensure all details are accurate, including your name, medical condition, and number of leave days.

2. DHA or MOH Verification

   • Submit the certificate to the Dubai Health Authority (if issued in Dubai).

   • If issued in another emirate, verify it through the Ministry of Health.

3. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Attestation

   • Once DHA/MOH verification is complete, proceed to the MOFA attestation in Dubai.

   • MOFA will add an official seal confirming that the document is genuine.

4. Employer Submission

   • After attestation, submit the certified document to your employer or HR department for final approval.

Documents Required for Sick Leave Attestation

To complete the Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai, you’ll need the following documents:

• Original medical certificate issued by a registered healthcare provider.

• Copy of your Emirates ID or passport.

• Visa page copy (if applicable).

• Any supporting medical reports (optional).

• Attestation fee receipt (if already paid online).

Processing Time and Fees

The processing time for Sick leave attestation usually ranges from 1 to 3 working days, depending on the issuing authority and the workload.

• DHA Verification Fee: Around AED 70 – AED 100.

• MOFA Attestation Fee: Approximately AED 150 per document.

These fees may vary depending on the service center or urgency level.

Online Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai

Dubai offers a convenient online sick leave attestation service through the DHA smart services portal. You can upload your medical certificate and pay the fees electronically. After approval, a digital attested version will be available for download.

This online option saves time and avoids unnecessary visits to government offices, making it ideal for busy professionals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Attestation

• Submitting a non-DHA-approved medical certificate.

• Providing incomplete personal or medical details.

• Skipping the MOFA attestation step.

• Failing to check signature and stamp authenticity on the certificate.

Ensuring accuracy at each stage helps avoid delays or rejection.

Importance of MOFA Attestation in Sick Leave Certificates

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Dubai plays a final and crucial role in the attestation chain. Without MOFA attestation, the document is not officially recognized by employers, embassies, or foreign entities. This final stamp authenticates the certificate for legal, visa, or governmental use both inside and outside the UAE.

Where to Get Help for Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai

If you find the process confusing or time-consuming, professional attestation service providers in Dubai can handle everything on your behalf. They collect your documents, complete DHA, MOH, and MOFA verification, and return the attested documents safely.

These services are ideal for employees who cannot visit government offices personally due to illness or busy schedules.

Conclusion

Sick Leave Attestation in Dubai is a mandatory procedure to ensure your medical certificate is legally recognized by employers and government authorities. Whether you’re an employee on medical leave or a resident managing documentation, following the right Sick leave attestation process ensures smooth approval and compliance with UAE regulations.

For a hassle-free experience, always use DHA-approved medical centers and make sure your certificate is attested by MOFA before submission.