UAE Reduces Working Hours for Public and Private Sector Employees During Ramadan

• UAE shortens work hours for Ramadan
• Federal staff work 9am-2:30pm Mon-Thu, 9am-12pm on Fridays
• Private sector hours cut by two daily, flexible work allowed

The United Arab Emirates has announced reduced working hours for employees in both the public and private sectors during the holy month of Ramadan. The revised schedule is intended to support employees observing the month while ensuring that government services and business activities continue as usual.

Federal government working hours

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed the official working hours for ministries and federal entities.

From Monday to Thursday, employees will work from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. On Fridays, working hours will run from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. These timings apply to all federal ministries and entities, except for roles where the nature of the job requires different schedules.

The authority stated that flexible working regulations may continue during Ramadan, provided employees complete the approved daily hours.

Federal entities may also allow staff to work remotely on Fridays. However, remote work must not exceed 70 per cent of the total workforce and must follow the approved rules and controls.

Private sector working hours

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced that private sector working hours will be reduced by two hours per day throughout Ramadan.

Employees in the UAE usually work between eight and nine hours daily. During Ramadan, this will be shortened by two hours in line with labour guidelines.

Companies may introduce flexible or remote working arrangements, as long as they remain within the reduced daily working hours and suit the needs of the business.

Any additional hours worked beyond the reduced Ramadan schedule will be treated as overtime. Employees will be eligible for extra pay in accordance with labour regulations.

Flexible and remote work provisions

Authorities have allowed flexibility across both sectors while maintaining normal operations.

Federal entities can continue applying approved flexible work systems during Ramadan and may permit remote work on Fridays within the 70 per cent limit.

Private sector companies are also permitted to adopt flexible or remote schedules, provided they follow the reduced working hour framework.