By Staff Reporter
Working hours across the UAE will be reduced during the holy month of Ramadan, in line with national labour laws, offering shorter daily schedules for both public and private sector employees.
Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, subject to moon sighting, and workplaces are already preparing for adjusted routines to accommodate fasting and changed daily patterns.
Private Sector: Two-Hour Reduction Mandatory
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, all private sector employees regulated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) are entitled to a mandatory reduction of two working hours per day throughout Ramadan.
The regulation applies to both Muslim and non-Muslim employees, as it is based on labour policy rather than religious affiliation. Employers are allowed to introduce flexible schedules, shift work, or remote working arrangements, provided the total daily working hours are reduced accordingly.
Overtime rules remain unchanged and apply if employees are required to work beyond the reduced hours.
Public Sector: Official Circulars Expected
For government employees, Ramadan working hours are typically announced through federal and local government circulars issued closer to the start of the holy month.
In previous years, public sector schedules have included:
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Shorter working days
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Flexible start and finish times
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Remote work options where operationally feasible
Specific arrangements may vary between emirates and departments, especially for customer-facing services and essential operations.
Balancing Productivity and Wellbeing
Labour guidance in recent years has encouraged employers to adopt flexible and staggered working hours to maintain productivity while supporting employee wellbeing during Ramadan.
Reduced working hours during Ramadan are a longstanding feature of the UAE’s labour system, reflecting the country’s commitment to balancing business needs with social and religious considerations.
Further details on public sector schedules are expected to be announced in the coming days through official government channels.
