New global research from Moorepay reveals significant variations in paid time off worldwide, with the UK ranking poorly. The study, analysing statutory annual leave and public holiday entitlements across 187 nations, combined with World Bank income data, highlights both the quantity and financial value of leave. The UK falls below average, placing 114th with 28 paid days of leave and no paid public holidays, according to the report published today. This contrasts sharply with Yemen, which tops the list with 46 statutory paid days off per year, the highest globally. The United States stands out for offering zero statutory paid leave or public holidays, a unique position among the nations studied.
The research underscores regional disparities. In Europe, countries like Sweden and Finland offer 38 and 34 days respectively, while South America’s Colombia provides 27 days. Africa’s Libya and Mauritius each grant 41 days, and Asia’s Bhutan offers 18. The UK shares its lack of paid public holiday entitlement with the Netherlands, the U.S., Japan, and Guyana. Despite this, the UK’s annual leave allowance equates to £2,960 for someone on the average salary, ranking 19th globally for financial value, per Moorepay’s calculations.
Work-life balance is increasingly prioritised globally, and this data serves as a benchmark for assessing national leave policies. The absence of paid public holidays in the UK, unlike the global average, may impact employee wellbeing and travel opportunities. The study notes that while some localities in the U.S. have their own rules, the lack of a nationwide law contrasts with Yemen’s generous 30 days of vacation plus 16 public holidays. This disparity raises questions about how paid time off correlates with productivity and mental health, topics gaining traction in workplace discussions.
Moorepay sourced the data from governmental websites, ensuring accuracy across the 187 countries. The map visualisation highlights no data for some regions, but the findings provide a comprehensive overview. For instance, North America’s average hovers around 24 days, while the Middle East and Central Asia see Yemen’s 46 days as an outlier. This research aligns with growing interest in statutory leave as a measure of societal support, with experts suggesting it influences economic and social outcomes.
The UK’s position below the global average prompts consideration of policy adjustments. With 28 days of leave but no public holidays, employees may feel the pinch compared to peers in higher-ranking nations. This data, released amid rising focus on work-life balance, could inform future debates on statutory entitlements.
As global conversations around rest and productivity intensify, this study provides a factual basis for comparison. The UK’s £2,960 leave value stands out positively, yet the lack of paid public holidays remains a notable gap. This research, conducted with rigorous methodology, underscores the diverse approaches to paid time off worldwide.