The UAE government has announced new working hours for public sector employees during Ramadan. From Monday to Thursday, employees will work from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM. On Fridays, working hours will be from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This adjustment reduces work hours by 3.5 hours on weekdays and 1.5 hours on Fridays.
Certain employees may have different schedules based on work requirements. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) confirmed that ministries and federal entities can continue flexible work arrangements. However, they must follow the daily work hour limits.
Remote work will also be allowed on Fridays for up to 70% of the workforce. However, this will be based on approved guidelines.
Ramadan Start Date and Crescent Moon Sighting
The Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) predicts that Ramadan will start on March 1, 2025. The UAE’s International Astronomy Centre (IAC) has confirmed that Ramadan’s crescent moon should be visible on February 28.
Islamic months have either 29 or 30 days, depending on the crescent sighting. Official moon-sighting committees will meet on February 28 to determine Ramadan’s exact start date. If the moon is sighted, fasting will begin the following day.
Regular Working Hours in the UAE
Outside of Ramadan, UAE federal employees follow a four-and-a-half-day workweek. From Monday to Thursday, they work from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. On Fridays, their working hours are from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
Federal employees in most emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, follow the same schedule. However, Sharjah government employees have a different system. They work four days a week, from Monday to Thursday, with hours from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Their official weekend lasts three days, from Friday to Sunday.
These Ramadan adjustments aim to balance work efficiency with religious observance. By reducing working hours, the government ensures employees can fulfill their professional and spiritual commitments.
