The government of the United Arab Emirates has approved reduced working hours for private sector employees during the month of Ramadan in 2026. This was reported by Khaleej Times here.
The Ministry of Human Resources announced that working hours during the holy month will be reduced by up to two hours. Typically, employees work 8-9 hours, but during Ramadan this period is shortened to 6-7 hours.
Companies have the right to organize work schedules flexibly: they can implement remote work or adjust working hours within the established framework. In this case, work beyond the reduced hours is considered overtime and requires additional payment.
Government employees will also switch to a lighter schedule. From Monday to Thursday, their working day will be from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, and on Friday until noon. Professions requiring continuous presence at the workplace are exempt from this.
