DUBAI: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has announced that private sector employees in the UAE will have their daily working hours reduced by two hours during the holy month of Ramadan.
MOHRE confirmed the update in an official statement, noting that businesses can implement flexible or remote work arrangements, provided they adhere to the daily work hour limits.
The decision applies across all private-sector entities in the country.
Public sector schedule for Ramadan 2025
The UAE government has also released working hours for federal employees during Ramadan. Ministries and federal entities will operate from 9am to 2:30pm from Monday to Thursday, while Friday hours will be from 9am to 12 noon. These timings were issued by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).
Remote and flexible work options
MOHRE stated that companies have the option to introduce flexible work models, considering the operational requirements of their business. The guidelines allow remote work for specific employees, ensuring productivity while accommodating the shorter workdays.
Similarly, FAHR has authorised federal authorities to implement flexible schedules for public sector workers. Up to 70 per cent of government employees may work remotely on Fridays, following established regulations.
Expected Ramadan dates
Ramadan 2025 is anticipated to commence on Saturday, March 1, according to astronomers. The International Astronomy Centre (IAC) has projected that the crescent moon will likely be visible on the evening of Friday, February 28, signalling the beginning of the Islamic month of fasting.
However, the official confirmation will depend on the moon-sighting committee’s observation. Islamic months are either 29 or 30 days long, based on lunar cycles.
Regular workweek structure
Outside of Ramadan, UAE government employees follow a four-and-a-half-day workweek. Federal entities operate from 7:30am to 3:30pm from Monday to Thursday, with Friday hours set from 7:30am to 12 noon.
Most emirates, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, follow this schedule. However, Sharjah implements a four-day workweek from Monday to Thursday, giving government employees a three-day weekend.