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UAE Announces Shorter Ramadan Work Hours for Govt Employees
Public sector employees to enjoy reduced work hours during the holy month
- Publish date: Sunday، 23 February 2025
The UAE government has officially announced reduced working hours for public sector employees during the holy month of Ramadan. From Monday to Thursday, government workers will clock in from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, while Fridays will see an even shorter workday, running from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Read More: Ramadan 2025 in the UAE: Here's What We Know
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) confirmed the changes on Sunday, highlighting that employees will work 3.5 hours less on weekdays and 1.5 hours less on Fridays. However, exceptions apply to roles that require different working arrangements.
Remote & Flexible Work Policies
Government ministries and federal entities can continue offering flexible work arrangements, provided employees adhere to daily work hour limits. Additionally, up to 70% of employees may work remotely on Fridays, based on approved guidelines.
When Does Ramadan Start?
According to the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The UAE’s International Astronomy Centre (IAC) has indicated that the crescent moon marking the start of the holy month will likely be visible on the night of February 28.
Since Islamic months last 29 or 30 days, moon-sighting committees will meet on Shaban 29 (February 28) to confirm Ramadan’s official start date.
Regular Work Hours Outside Ramadan
For the rest of the year, UAE federal employees follow a four-and-a-half-day workweek:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Fridays: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Weekends: Saturdays & Sundays
Government entities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah follow a similar schedule. However, Sharjah’s public sector operates on a four-day workweek (Monday – Thursday, 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM), with an extended three-day weekend from Friday to Sunday.
With shorter working hours and flexible arrangements, government employees can better balance professional commitments with Ramadan’s spiritual and cultural practices.
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