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Federal Law No. 10 of 2023 provides key protections for mental health information in the UAE workplace, a Gulf News report has detailed. The legislation safeguards the confidentiality of psychiatric patients’ data and includes provisions that generally prevent employment termination or restrictions based solely on a mental health diagnosis. Such decisions require review by a specialised medical committee under conditions specified in the law and related employment legislation, according to the report. Experts interviewed for the story stressed the importance of respecting personal boundaries around mental health disclosures.
Counselling psychologist Katrina Spartalis told Gulf News that privacy should not be equated with shame or stigma. “An employee may be very comfortable with the fact that they see a therapist, take medication or have a mental health diagnosis, while still feeling that this information belongs to their private life. We generally accept that people are entitled to boundaries around their physical health, relationships and family circumstances. Mental health deserves the same respect,” she said. The article noted that many employees opt to keep such details private to maintain professional focus separate from personal health.
Managers noticing changes in performance are advised to initiate supportive conversations without demanding diagnoses, the Gulf News piece explained. Spartalis recommended phrases such as “I’ve noticed a change and wanted to check whether you’re okay” while clearly stating that the employee controls what information they share. If the worker prefers not to discuss personal matters, that choice must be respected and focus shifted to work-related adjustments or available resources, she noted in the interview.
A Cigna Healthcare 2025 International Health Study found that 31 per cent of UAE employees had taken time off for mental health reasons, markedly higher than the global average of 17 per cent. This data, referenced in related coverage, underscores both increased willingness to seek help and ongoing hesitations tied to privacy fears. The UAE has expanded mental health initiatives including Abu Dhabi’s 24/7 support line and Dubai’s dedicated framework to reduce barriers.
Legal specialists have pointed to complementary rules under the Personal Data Protection Law that treat mental health records as sensitive information requiring heightened safeguards. Employers must limit access to those with legitimate need and face penalties for breaches, according to analyses from UAE law firms. The combined framework aims to encourage treatment without professional repercussions.
The Gulf News report concluded that supportive workplaces prioritise creating environments where voluntary disclosure leads to fair treatment rather than mandating openness from all staff. Spartalis emphasised that the objective is confidentiality, dignity and support for those who choose to share. Such an approach aligns with broader efforts to normalise mental health care across the UAE workforce.
