Ramadan Working Hours 2026 for Private Sector Announced

ramadan working hours for private sector in uae announced by mohre

We’ve got news for private sector employees in the UAE! The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced that during the Holy Month of Ramadan, work timings for the private sector shall be reduced by two hours.

ALSO READ: List of UAE Public Holidays

Based on Article 65 of Federal Law No. 08 of 1980, the announcement was made by the Minister of of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

The UAE government has officially announced the working hours for both the public and private sectors for the upcoming Holy Month of Ramadan in 2026. As the country prepares for a month of fasting, reflection, and community, these adjusted schedules aim to support employees observing the fast while ensuring business continuity.

Here is everything you need to know about the work timings for Ramadan 2026.

Private Sector Working Hours

For employees in the private sector, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has confirmed that the standard working day will be reduced by two hours.

This reduction applies to all private sector employees, regardless of whether they are fasting or not. This longstanding policy allows for a more balanced schedule during the Holy Month, giving Muslim employees time for worship and rest, while non-Muslim staff can also benefit from the shorter days.

Flexible and Remote Work Options

In line with modern work practices, the MoHRE has also highlighted that private sector companies are permitted to implement flexible or remote working arrangements. These arrangements must remain within the limits of the specified daily working hours and are subject to the employer’s discretion and business requirements.

This flexibility allows companies to better manage operations while accommodating the personal and spiritual needs of their workforce during this significant time.

Public Sector Working Hours

For federal government employees, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has set specific timings for the work week:

  • Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM (5.5 hours)
  • Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (3 hours)

Remote Work for Government Staff

Government entities have also been granted the authority to adopt flexible working schedules, provided that the required daily hours are fulfilled. Additionally, remote work options are available on Fridays, with a cap set at 70% of total staff working off-site. This ensures that essential services remain accessible to the public while offering flexibility to government employees.

ALSO READ: UAE Labour Law: Rules on Working Hours

A Note for Expats

For expats living in the UAE, Ramadan is a culturally rich time to experience the traditions of the Emirates. The pace of life generally slows down, and the evenings come alive with Iftars (breaking of the fast) and Suhoors (pre-dawn meals).

Indeed, the Holy Month of Ramadan is an important occasion in the UAE as well as in all Islamic nations around the world. If this is your first time in the emirates, here are some do’s and don’ts — including things that you should/shouldn’t do during Ramadan — that every resident, tourist, or visitor should know.

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