- Dubai – Working hours for both public and private sector employees in the UAE will be reduced during the holy month of Ramadan, in accordance with the country’s labour laws and regulations.
- As the holy month is anticipated to begin on February 19, employees across government and private entities can expect shorter daily schedules designed to accommodate fasting and adjusted routines.
- Ramadan working hour adjustments are a longstanding feature of the UAE labour system, intended to support social, cultural, and religious practices while maintaining business continuity.
Dubai – Working hours for both public and private sector employees in the UAE will be reduced during the holy month of Ramadan, in accordance with the country’s labour laws and regulations.
As the holy month is anticipated to begin on February 19, employees across government and private entities can expect shorter daily schedules designed to accommodate fasting and adjusted routines.
Private Sector Employees
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, all private sector employees must receive a mandatory reduction of two working hours per day during Ramadan. This regulation applies to all staff regulated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), regardless of role, seniority, or religion.
Employers may implement flexible shifts or remote working arrangements to meet operational needs, provided that the reduced hours requirement is maintained.
Authorities have also confirmed that this reduction applies to Muslim and non-Muslim employees alike, as the rule is based on workplace regulation rather than religious observance.
Public Sector Employees
For public sector staff, federal and local government entities typically issue circulars closer to Ramadan specifying timings for the holy month. These usually include:
Individual emirates or departments may further adjust schedules, particularly for customer-facing or essential services, to ensure smooth operations during Ramadan.
Flexible and Staggered Hours
Labour guidance in previous years has allowed companies to introduce flexible or staggered schedules to balance productivity with employee wellbeing. Overtime provisions remain applicable if employees are required to work beyond the reduced daily limits.
Ramadan working hour adjustments are a longstanding feature of the UAE labour system, intended to support social, cultural, and religious practices while maintaining business continuity.
Official confirmations of the public sector schedules for 2026 are expected through separate circulars ahead of Ramadan.
This ensures employees across the UAE can plan their schedules and personal routines accordingly during the fasting month.
