The holy month of Ramadan brings significant changes to the working hours of public sector employees in the UAE. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (Fahr) has announced adjusted schedules to accommodate the spiritual and physical demands of this sacred period. From Monday to Thursday, employees will work from 9am to 2.30pm, while Fridays will see a shorter workday from 9am to 12pm. This reduction in working hours amounts to 3.5 hours less on weekdays and 1.5 hours less on Fridays.
Flexibility remains a key feature of the Ramadan work schedule. Ministries and federal government employees can continue their approved flexible work arrangements, provided they adhere to the daily work hour limits. Remote work options are available for up to 70% of the total workforce on Fridays, following established guidelines. However, exceptions apply for employees whose roles require different hours, ensuring essential services continue uninterrupted.
The anticipated start of Ramadan is Saturday, March 1, 2025, according to the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). The UAE’s International Astronomy Centre (IAC) has confirmed that the Ramadan crescent will be visible in the sky the night before, signaling the beginning of the fasting period for Muslims worldwide.
Outside of Ramadan, the UAE federal government operates on a four and a half-day working week. Employees typically work eight-hour days, from 7:30am to 3:30pm Monday to Thursday, and 7:30am to 12:00pm on Fridays. Saturdays and Sundays serve as the official weekend for the federal government sector. Most local government entities across the Emirates have adopted a similar work week system, with Sharjah being the exception, offering a four-day work week from Monday to Thursday.
These Ramadan working hours reflect the UAE’s commitment to balancing productivity with the spiritual significance of the holy month, allowing employees to fully engage in religious observances while maintaining essential government functions.
