UAE private sector cuts work time by 2 hours during Ramadan

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) has announced that regular working hours for private sector employees in the UAE will be reduced by two hours per day during the holy month of Ramadan.

The move is in line with the executive regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the regulation of employment relations and its amendments, which provide for reduced working hours for employees during Ramadan in recognition of the spiritual significance of the month.

MoHRE said the reduced hours will apply to all private sector employees across the country, regardless of their job role or industry. The ministry emphasised that the decision aims to support employees in balancing their professional responsibilities with religious practices and family commitments during Ramadan.

At the same time, companies have been granted flexibility in organising work schedules to ensure business continuity. According to the ministry, private sector establishments may implement flexible working arrangements or allow remote work within the specified daily working hours, depending on their operational requirements and the nature of their activities.

Employers are encouraged to adopt suitable systems that maintain productivity while providing employees with a supportive working environment throughout the holy month. The ministry noted that these measures are intended to enhance workplace well-being and reflect the UAE’s commitment to accommodating religious observances while sustaining economic activity.

The annual reduction in working hours during Ramadan is a longstanding practice in the UAE, reflecting the country’s cultural values and efforts to ensure a balanced work-life environment for both Muslim and non-Muslim employees during the fasting period.