UAE Announces Reduced Working Hours for Private Sector During Ramadan

The United Arab Emirates has announced reduced daily working hours for private sector employees in observance of the holy month of Ramadan. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

According to MoHRE, private companies may implement flexible or remote working arrangements within the reduced daily working hours, depending on the nature of their work and business requirements.

Typically, employees in the UAE work between eight and nine hours a day. During Ramadan, daily working hours will be reduced by two hours. Any work performed beyond the reduced hours will be considered overtime, and employees will be entitled to additional compensation.

Working hours for the public sector have also been adjusted. From Monday to Thursday, official working hours will be from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, while on Fridays, offices will operate from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. However, these timings may not apply to roles that require different working arrangements.

With shorter working hours, residents are expected to have more time to spend with family and friends, as well as to engage in worship and self-reflection during the holy month.

Although employees will have two fewer hours to complete their tasks, human resource experts say Ramadan often serves as a fresh start, encouraging better time management. While the first few days may be challenging, reduced working hours can help employees become more focused, efficient, and purposeful in their work.