UAE Announces Adjusted Ramadan Working Hours for Government Employees
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced the adjusted working hours for public sector employees during the holy month of Ramadan. The new schedule will see reduced working hours to accommodate employees observing the month of fasting. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) confirmed the changes on Sunday, emphasizing flexibility and efficiency in the workplace while respecting the spiritual significance of Ramadan.
According to the announcement, government employees will have the following working hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
These adjustments mean that employees will work 3.5 hours less per day from Monday to Thursday and 1.5 hours less on Fridays, compared to their regular work schedule.
Flexible and Remote Work Options
While the revised working hours apply to most federal government employees, some exceptions exist for employees whose work requires different operational hours. FAHR clarified that ministers and federal entities may continue implementing their approved flexible work arrangements during Ramadan, provided they adhere to the daily work hour limits.
Additionally, remote work on Fridays will be permitted for up to 70% of the total workforce, based on the approved guidelines and operational requirements. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s efforts to promote work-life balance while ensuring business continuity.
Expected Start Date for Ramadan 2025
According to the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1. The actual start date will be confirmed based on the sighting of the crescent moon.
The International Astronomy Centre (IAC) stated that the Ramadan crescent moon is likely to be visible on the evening of February 28, marking the beginning of the holy month the following day. However, as per Islamic tradition, official moon-sighting committees will meet on the 29th day of Shaban (February 28) to determine the exact commencement of Ramadan.
Since Islamic months last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon’s visibility, the official duration of Ramadan will also be confirmed later in the month.
Regular Working Hours in the UAE Federal Government
Under normal circumstances, the UAE federal government operates on a four-and-a-half-day workweek, implemented in January 2022 to enhance productivity and well-being. During months other than Ramadan, federal employees adhere to the following work hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM
The official weekend for federal government employees is Saturday and Sunday.
Workweek Variations in Different Emirates
Although the four-and-a-half-day workweek has been widely adopted across the UAE, variations exist among emirates and specific government entities:
- Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah have aligned their local government work schedules with the federal government’s workweek structure.
- Sharjah, however, follows a four-day workweek for federal employees, with working hours from Monday to Thursday (7:30 AM to 3:30 PM). Sharjah employees enjoy a three-day weekend, which includes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
A Balanced Approach to Work During Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, spiritual reflection, and increased devotion. Recognizing the physical and mental demands of fasting, the UAE government has consistently adjusted working hours to create an environment where employees can maintain productivity while observing religious traditions.
The shortened work schedule during Ramadan ensures that employees can balance professional responsibilities with religious and personal commitments, including prayer, family time, and community engagements.
Additionally, the flexibility in remote work policies further supports employees by reducing commuting time, allowing them to focus on their well-being during the holy month.
UAE’s Progressive Work Policies
The UAE has been at the forefront of implementing progressive workplace policies, particularly in government and public sector employment. The transition to a four-and-a-half-day workweek in 2022 was a landmark decision aimed at enhancing global competitiveness, economic productivity, and employee well-being.
Similarly, the introduction of flexible and remote work options during Ramadan reflects the UAE’s commitment to modern work practices while upholding cultural and religious values.
By setting clear guidelines on working hours, flexibility, and remote work, the UAE ensures that public sector employees remain efficient and motivated while respecting the spiritual significance of Ramadan.
Conclusion
The announcement of Ramadan working hours for government employees highlights the UAE’s dedication to fostering a balanced and productive work environment. With the start of Ramadan expected on March 1, 2025, government employees will benefit from shortened work hours, flexible work arrangements, and the option for remote work on Fridays.
As the UAE continues to implement progressive workplace policies, the adjustment of work hours during Ramadan serves as an example of how modern governance can align with cultural and religious traditions while maintaining operational efficiency.
