Abstract  The study aims to assess the relationship between emotional intelligence and levels of depression among patients with depressive disorders. A descriptive correlational study was utilized with a sample of (106) depressed patients who were diagnosed by a psychiatrist with depressive disorders and attend outpatient clinics in Mansoura University Hospitals. Data were collected by using three tools, one for assessing socio demographic characteristics which developed by the investigator, and the second for assessing level of depression using Beck Depression Inventory BDI-II, and the third for assessing emotional intelligence using Barchard emotional intelligence questionnaire. Results revealed a varied, significant negative correlation between level of depression and positive expressivity, attending emotion, responsive joy, emotion and decision making and empathetic concern. In conclusion, there is a highly significant relationship between the level of depression and emotional intelligence. Therefore, it is recommended to use the emotional intelligence in preventing and managing depression.