Dubai Ramadan 2026 work timings have been officially announced for employees across the emirate and the wider UAE. Both the public and private sectors will operate on reduced daily schedules throughout the holy month, with the framework now confirmed by the relevant federal authorities.
According to astronomical predictions, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, 19 February, 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. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) then outlined the rules for private sector workers, completing the picture for employers and staff across Dubai and the UAE.
Reduced working hours during Ramadan are designed to support those who are fasting while ensuring business continuity nationwide.
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. Article 17(4) of that law, read alongside Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, expressly mandates the two-hour daily reduction — it is not left to the employer's discretion.
The rule applies to all private sector workers regardless of religion or fasting status. 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 the holy month.
From Monday to Thursday, public sector working hours will run from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. On Fridays, government employees will work from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm.
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, and employees whose roles allow it may work remotely — particularly on Fridays — depending on internal policies and job requirements.
What Dubai Ramadan Work Timings Mean for Residents
With shorter working days in place, residents can expect adjusted business hours across government offices and private companies throughout 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 exactly how the Ramadan working hours will apply to their specific roles and contracts.
As Ramadan approaches, further confirmation may be issued following the official moon sighting — but the reduced working framework is now clearly established for both sectors across Dubai and the UAE.
