Working hours across the UAE are reduced every year during the holy month of Ramadan to support employee wellbeing while maintaining productivity, in line with the country’s labour laws and social values.

With Ramadan 2026 expected to begin around February 19, both public and private sector employees will move to shorter daily schedules, a longstanding practice embedded in UAE workplace regulations.

Authorities are expected to issue official confirmations of public sector schedules in separate announcements ahead of Ramadan.

Supporting fasting employees

The primary reason for shorter working hours is to accommodate fasting, as Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset throughout Ramadan.

Reduced hours help employees:

• Manage lower energy levels during the day
• Maintain focus and productivity
• Balance work with prayer, rest and family commitments

A legal requirement, not a religious exception

In the private sector, the two-hour daily reduction is a legal requirement under UAE labour law.

The rule applies to:

• Muslim and non-Muslim employees
• All roles and seniority levels

This ensures fairness and consistency across workplaces during the holy month.

Promoting wellbeing and productivity

Authorities have consistently said that shorter working hours during Ramadan are designed to improve employee well-being, reduce fatigue and prevent burnout, particularly in physically or mentally demanding roles.

Labour guidance also allows companies to:

• Introduce flexible or staggered working hours
• Offer remote or hybrid work arrangements
• Adjust shift patterns while meeting reduced-hour requirements

Reflecting social and cultural values

Ramadan is a significant period in the UAE’s social and cultural calendar. Adjusting working hours reflects the country’s commitment to:

• Respecting religious observance
• Supporting family and community life
• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance

Balancing business continuity

While hours are reduced, businesses are still expected to operate efficiently. Overtime provisions remain in place when additional work is required, helping companies maintain service levels during the month.

A longstanding UAE practice

Reduced working hours during Ramadan have been part of the UAE’s labour framework for decades, reinforcing the country’s approach to combining economic productivity with social responsibility.