Reduced working hours announced for Ramadan 2024 in the UAE
Muslim and non-Muslims are entitled to work Ramadan hours.
As Ramadan is soon approaching, the UAE has declared shorter working hours during the Holy Month. Ramadan is expected to start on 11 March, but the exact date will be confirmed by the moon sighting committee.
UAE labour law states that during Ramadan, the private sector will also work reduced hours. Regardless of if the employee is a Muslim or fasting, the working day will be reduced by two hours.
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) took to social media to make the announcement. Taking to platform X, formerly known as Twitter, it said, “The Ministry announces a reduction of two working hours per day for private sector employees during the Holy Month of Ramadan. In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits of the daily working hours during Ramadan.” This means you can wrap up your work a bit earlier and have more time to worship and reflect during Ramadan.
The Ministry announces a reduction of 2 working hours per day for private sector employees during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) March 4, 2024
The Ministry said: “In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits…
The policy applies to all employees of the company, be they Muslims or non-Muslims. Additionally, should any individual be required to work beyond the stipulated hours, the company is obligated to provide overtime compensation.
For ministries and federal agencies, the workday kicks off at 9am and wraps up at 2:30 pm, Monday through Thursday and until noon on Fridays. Plus, there’s a bonus for federal government employees, with the option for up to 70 per cent of staff to work from the comfort of their homes on Fridays during Ramadan.
Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam. The Holy Month marks when the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Mohammed PBUH. During the month, Muslims across the world fast from sunrise to sunset. The last ten days of the month coincide with Laylat Al Qadr.
Eid is expected to fall on 10 April, but the exact date will also be confirmed by the moon sighting committee. Eid is a public holiday in the UAE, and the dates have not yet been confirmed. The holiday is celebrated by Muslims around the world with prayers, meals and gifts.
GO: Visit www.mohre.gov.ae for more information.
