Working hours are reduced by 2 hours during Ramadan in the UAE

In connection with the month of Ramadan in 2026, working hours for employees in the private sector in the United Arab Emirates will be reduced by 2 hours per day. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

The Ministry of Human Resources of the country issued an official statement on February 12 regarding this. Employees who usually work 8–9 hours will operate on a 6–7 hour work schedule during Ramadan.

Hours worked beyond the established norm will be considered overtime and paid separately according to a special procedure. Additionally, companies are allowed to set flexible work schedules.

For example, remote work can be introduced or working hours can be changed within the framework of legislation. A simplified work schedule will also be implemented in government institutions.

Accordingly, from Monday to Thursday, working hours will be from 09:00 to 14:30, and on Friday, work will continue until noon. However, sectors requiring continuous work processes are exempt from this arrangement.

This decision was made to provide citizens with more time for family, worship, and spiritual activities. According to astronomical calculations, Ramadan in 2026 is expected to begin on February 19 in the UAE and other Muslim countries.