What To Know
- The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed the working hours for public sector employees, followed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which outlined the rules for private sector workers.
- Private sector employees in Dubai and across the UAE will have their daily working hours reduced by two hours throughout Ramadan 2026.
- As Ramadan approaches, further confirmations may be issued based on the official moon sighting, but the reduced working framework is now clear for both sectors across Dubai and the UAE.
Ramadan 2026 working hours have officially been announced for employees across Dubai and the UAE. Both the public and private sectors will operate on reduced schedules during the holy month.
According to astronomical predictions, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, subject to the official moon sighting. Once the Hijri month begins, working hours across the country will be shortened for all employees, regardless of religion.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed the working hours for public sector employees, followed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which outlined the rules for private sector workers.
Reduced working hours during Ramadan are designed to support those who are fasting, while ensuring business continuity across the UAE.
Ramadan 2026 Working Hours for the Private Sector
Private sector employees in Dubai and across the UAE will have their daily working hours reduced by two hours throughout Ramadan 2026.
This reduction applies to all private companies operating in the country, in line with Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021. The law regulates working hours across the UAE and grants MOHRE the authority to implement Ramadan schedules annually.
Depending on the nature of their roles, employees may also be eligible for flexible working arrangements or remote work options during Ramadan. Employers can introduce adjusted schedules to support productivity while accommodating the shorter working day.
Ramadan 2026 Working Hours for the Public Sector
Government employees will also follow a reduced schedule during Ramadan 2026.
From Monday to Thursday, public sector working hours will be from 9:00am to 2:30pm. On Fridays, government employees will work from 9:00am until 12:00pm.
The work week structure remains unchanged, with Friday continuing as the final working day for public sector employees.
Federal entities are also permitted to implement flexible work systems during Ramadan. Employees whose roles allow it may work remotely, particularly on Fridays, depending on internal policies and job requirements.
What This Means for Dubai Residents
With shorter working days in place, residents can expect adjusted business hours across government offices and private companies during Ramadan 2026.
The reduced schedule reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting work-life balance during the holy month while maintaining economic activity. Employers and employees are encouraged to review internal policies to understand how the Ramadan working hours will apply to their specific roles.
As Ramadan approaches, further confirmations may be issued based on the official moon sighting, but the reduced working framework is now clear for both sectors across Dubai and the UAE.
