The UAE government has unveiled a plan to shorten daily work hours for employees in the private sector throughout Ramadan.
According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the standard workday will be trimmed by two hours during the holy month.
MoHRE also said that businesses in the private sector can offer flexible or remote work arrangements, as long as they stay within the reduced daily hours, tailored to their operational needs.
Since a normal workday in the UAE usually runs eight to nine hours, the Ramadan schedule will see a two‑hour reduction each day, and any time worked beyond that may qualify as overtime with corresponding pay.
Hours for public‑sector staff have also been adjusted: Monday through Thursday will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., unless specific job duties require a different schedule.
Shorter workdays aim to give people more time for family, social activities and prayer. HR specialists note that, despite the shorter hours, employees often become more intentional about organising their time, with the initial adjustment period eventually boosting productivity and focus.
While many nations expect to sight the Ramadan crescent on February 17, astronomical data suggest it won’t be visible then. For places that wait for an official sighting, Shaban’s final day should be on February 18, with Ramadan likely beginning on February 19 in the UAE and elsewhere.
