During the holy month of Ramadan, working hours across both the public and private sectors are traditionally reduced to accommodate the spiritual needs of those fasting. For the federal government, the standard schedule shifts to a four-and-a-half-day work week, with employees typically on duty from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM from Monday to Thursday, and a shorter window from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays. This schedule is often complemented by remote work options on Fridays to ease the commute for those preparing for afternoon prayers.
In the private sector, the UAE Labour Law mandates a reduction of the standard working day by two hours for all employees, regardless of whether they are fasting. This means a standard eight-hour day is shortened to six hours without any reduction in salary. Businesses have the flexibility to adjust their specific start and end times to suit their operational needs, provided they respect the total hourly reduction. These measures aim to promote a healthy work-life balance and allow the community to observe the month’s traditions, such as Suhoor and Iftar, with their families.
