As the UAE prepares to welcome the holy month of Ramadan — expected to begin around February 18 or 19, 2026, subject to moon sighting — authorities have confirmed reduced working hours for private sector employees across the country.
The announcement by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) states that all private sector employees will work two hours fewer per day throughout Ramadan. The reduction applies to all employees regardless of faith, in line with longstanding UAE labour regulations designed to support wellbeing during the holy month.
What the Rule Means
Under the directive:
- Employees must work two hours less than their regular daily schedule.
- Employers may structure timings flexibly, provided the reduced-hour rule is met.
- Businesses can introduce flexible shifts, hybrid models, or remote work depending on operational needs.
- Salaries and employment benefits remain unchanged.
For many fasting employees, the shorter working day helps balance professional responsibilities with prayer, reflection, and family time during Ramadan.
How Different Sectors Are Applying the Reduced Hours
While the two-hour reduction is mandatory, companies are adjusting schedules differently based on operational requirements. Below is a comparison of how major sectors and organisations are implementing the changes:
| Sector / Organisation | Typical Ramadan Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Offices (General Private Sector) | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Standard six-hour office day |
| Emirates Group (Corporate Staff) | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Applies mainly to administrative teams |
| Etisalat (e& offices) | 9:00 AM – 2:30/3:00 PM | Reduced office hours; customer service may vary |
| DP World (Admin Teams) | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Operational logistics run 24/7 in shifts |
| Bank Branches (General UAE) | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Earlier public closing times |
| Mall Bank Branches | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM & 9:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Split shifts; reopen after Iftar |
| Retail Corporate Staff | Six-hour staggered shifts | Back-office follows reduced hours |
| Dubai Mall & Mall of the Emirates (Retail Hours) | Extended late-night trading | Customer-facing outlets operate longer after Iftar |
| Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi | 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Mon–Thu) | Shorter Friday hours |
| Philippine Consulate General in Dubai | 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM (Fri) | Adjusted Ramadan schedule |
Flexibility and Business Continuity
Despite shorter working days, essential sectors such as logistics, aviation, retail, and hospitality continue operating extended or round-the-clock shifts. Employers often rotate staff or introduce split shifts to maintain service levels while complying with labour regulations.
Retail destinations, including Dubai’s major malls, typically extend shopping and dining hours late into the night after Iftar, reflecting increased evening activity during Ramadan.
Also Read: Ramadan 2026 in the UAE: Start Date, Iftar & Suhoor Timings Explained
A Balanced Approach During the Holy Month
The UAE’s Ramadan work-hour adjustment reflects a balanced approach — maintaining economic productivity while acknowledging the spiritual and cultural importance of the month.
By mandating a two-hour daily reduction for private sector workers, the government ensures employees can better manage fasting, prayer, and family commitments without disrupting business continuity.
As Ramadan 2026 approaches, companies across the UAE are finalising their revised schedules, with employees preparing for a month that blends professional life with spiritual observance in a uniquely UAE way.
