What Are the Office Hours for Ramadan? Reduced Office Hours in UAE 2025

19-02-2025

Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims all around the world. In the UAE, this holy month brings many changes to daily routines. One of the most important adjustments is the reduced office hours for both government and private sector employees. This guide explains everything you need to know about Ramadan work hours UAE in 2025, including school hours, public transport schedules, and more. We will also answer common questions about the UAE labour law during Ramadan and provide useful tips to make this transition smooth for everyone.

1. Overview of Ramadan Work Hours in the UAE

During Ramadan, the UAE follows special rules to reduce work hours. Under the UAE Federal Labour Law, every employee’s workday is shortened by two hours. Therefore, instead of working the usual 8 hours per day, employees work 6 hours per day. This rule applies to all companies in the UAE, whether they are located onshore, in free zones, or in special financial areas such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

Key Points:

1. Working hours are reduced by 2 hours per day.
2. All employees work 6 hours daily instead of 8.
3. The rule applies to the private sector, public sector, free zones, DIFC, and ADGM.
4. Both fasting and non-fasting employees benefit from this rule.

These adjustments are made so that employees have more time to focus on their religious duties, rest, and family, which is very important during Ramadan.

2. Why Are Office Hours Reduced During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Because fasting from sunrise to sunset can be tiring, the UAE government has decided to reduce work hours. This helps employees in several ways:

1. Increased Energy: Shorter work hours mean employees are less exhausted.
2. Better Focus: Workers can concentrate on both work and their religious practices.
3. Work-Life Balance: More free time allows for family bonding and spiritual growth.

In addition, the reduced hours help to create a supportive work environment where everyone’s needs are considered.

3. Applicability to All Employees

3.1. Does the Reduced Working Hours Policy Apply to Non-Muslims?

Yes, the UAE Labour Law does not make a difference between fasting and non-fasting employees. Therefore, all employees, regardless of their religion, get a two-hour reduction in their daily working schedule. This means that whether you are Muslim or not, you are entitled to the shorter workday.

3.2. Which Sectors Are Affected?

The reduced work hours rule applies to almost every sector in the UAE:

1. Private Sector Companies
2. Public Sector Offices
3. Educational Institutions (Schools and Universities)
4. Free Zones such as JAFZA, DAFZA, and TECOM
5. Special Financial Zones like DIFC and ADGM

There are some exceptions for sectors that need to operate around the clock (e.g., healthcare, hospitality, and security), but in general, the two-hour reduction rule is widely applied.

4. Consequences of Violating the Law During Ramadan

4.1. What if an Employer Forces Extra Hours During Ramadan?

It is important to know that employers are not allowed to force employees to work more than the prescribed hours during Ramadan. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) regularly conducts checks to ensure that companies are in compliance with the law.

1. If a company forces extra hours: They may face penalties and fines.
2. Employee rights: An employee forced to work extra hours has the right to file a complaint with MOHRE.
3. Overtime: If extra hours are absolutely necessary, employers must pay overtime in accordance with UAE labour law.

4.2. Will Salaries Be Reduced in Ramadan?

No, employees’ salaries are not reduced because of the shorter work hours. Whether you work 8 hours or 6 hours, you are paid your full salary. This ensures that employees are not financially penalized for following the labour law during Ramadan.

5. Understanding the Different Labour Laws

5.1. UAE Federal Labour Law

The UAE Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, commonly known as “The Labour Law,” governs the majority of employees in the UAE. This law mandates the two-hour reduction in working hours during Ramadan for all employees working in the UAE proper.

5.2. DIFC and ADGM Labour Laws

Employees in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) are subject to their own employment laws:

1. DIFC Employment Law No. 4 of 2005: Applies only to employees working in DIFC.
2. ADGM Employment Regulations: Govern employees in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.

However, both sets of laws maintain the principle of reduced working hours during Ramadan.

5.3. Special Considerations for Free Zones

Many free zones in the UAE also follow the Federal Labour Law. Therefore, employees in these areas also enjoy the reduced working hours during Ramadan.

6. Ramadan Office Timings in UAE 2025

Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on March 1st, as announced by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee. This holy month brings significant changes not only for the general work environment but also for schools, public transport, and even public parking. Below is a detailed breakdown of the official timings for different sectors.

6.1. Timings for Different Sectors

1. Public Sector: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Weekdays), 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Fridays) – Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR)
2. Private Sector: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Weekdays), 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Fridays) – Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)
3. Schools: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Weekdays), 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Fridays) – Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)

Note: These timings may vary slightly based on the organization and local regulations, but the general rule of a two-hour reduction applies. Check exact timing only on their official website.

6.2. Special Friday Timings

On Fridays, the office timings are adjusted to allow employees to attend Jumah (Friday) prayers. Typically, government and private offices close earlier on Friday. For example, government offices may close at 12:00 PM, which gives enough time for employees to prepare for and attend the prayers that usually start at 1:15 PM.

6.3. Remote Work and Flexible Hours

In addition to the shortened office hours, some public sector entities allow remote work on Fridays. Up to 70% of staff may work from home, which provides extra flexibility and helps accommodate religious practices and family responsibilities.

6.4. Special Timings in Umm Al Qaiwain

In Umm Al Qaiwain, there is a unique schedule where government employees follow a four-day workweek during Ramadan, working from Thursday to Friday. This schedule is designed to provide additional rest and time for worship.

7. Public Sector Ramadan Working Hours

7.1. General Public Sector Timings

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has clearly announced the work timings for government employees during Ramadan 2025. Typically, public sector employees will work as follows:

1. Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
2. Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

These timings ensure that public servants have enough time for both their professional duties and religious practices. The shortened hours help reduce stress and improve work-life balance during this special month.

7.2. Friday Prayer Accommodations

On Fridays, adjustments are made so that employees can attend Jumah prayers. Since these prayers begin at around 1:15 PM, offices typically close earlier, at around 12:00 PM. This thoughtful timing helps employees fulfill their spiritual obligations without compromising work commitments.

7.3. Remote Work Options

Because many employees might have long commutes or family responsibilities, up to 70% of public sector employees are allowed to work remotely on Fridays. This policy is designed to ease the transition during Ramadan and provide a more comfortable working environment.

7.4. Special Case: Umm Al Qaiwain

In Umm Al Qaiwain, the workweek during Ramadan is even more flexible. Government employees work on a four-day schedule (Thursday to Friday). This innovative approach allows more time for rest, worship, and personal reflection, and it supports the overall spirit of Ramadan.

8. Private Sector Ramadan Working Hours

8.1. General Private Sector Timings

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has mandated that private sector companies must reduce working hours by two hours daily during Ramadan. Although the exact start and end times can vary depending on the company, the general rule is that employees work only six hours per day during this holy month.

For example, typical timings in the private sector might be:

1. Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
2. Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

These timings ensure that private sector employees have ample time to observe their religious duties while still managing their professional responsibilities.

8.2. Compliance and Enforcement

All private companies are required to comply with this law. Companies that do not follow the two-hour reduction rule may face inspections by MOHRE. If an employer is found to be non-compliant, penalties can be imposed on a case-by-case basis. Employees also have the right to file a complaint if they are forced to work beyond the prescribed hours.

8.3. Overtime and Extra Hours

In cases where extra work is necessary, any hours worked beyond the six-hour limit should be paid as overtime, in line with UAE labour law. However, the focus during Ramadan is on providing a balanced work schedule that supports both productivity and the spiritual well-being of employees.

9. School Ramadan Working Hours

9.1. Adjusted School Timings

Educational institutions also follow special timings during Ramadan to help students balance their academic responsibilities with their religious practices. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has announced that schools will have shortened hours during Ramadan 2025.

The typical school timings are:

1. Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
2. Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

These adjustments ensure that students are not overwhelmed by long school days while fasting.

9.2. Accommodating Jumah Prayers

On Fridays, school sessions end by 12:00 PM so that both students and staff have enough time to attend Jumah prayers. This adjustment is an essential part of the Ramadan schedule in schools.

9.3. Ramadan Spring Break

In addition to the daily shortened hours, many schools observe a spring break during Ramadan. For instance, the spring break in 2025 is scheduled from March 15 to April 5. This break provides students additional time to rest, reflect, and participate in religious and community activities.

10. RTA and Public Transport Ramadan Working Hours

10.1. Dubai Metro Ramadan Schedule

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) also adjusts the public transport schedules during Ramadan to help residents and visitors plan their commutes effectively. For the Dubai Metro, the expected service hours during Ramadan are as follows:

1. Monday to Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM
2. Friday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
3. Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM
4. Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM

10.2. Dubai Tram and Bus Schedules

Similarly, the Dubai Tram operates on a slightly adjusted schedule:

1. Monday to Thursday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
2. Weekend: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)

For buses in Dubai, the schedule is:

1. Monday to Friday: 4:30 AM – 12:30 AM (next day)
2. Saturday and Sunday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)

These schedules are designed to accommodate the late-night activities and extended shopping hours that often occur during Ramadan.

10.3. Public Parking Tariff During Ramadan

Public parking in the UAE is also adjusted during Ramadan. The parking tariff is applied in shifts:

1. First Shift: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
2. Second Shift: 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM

For areas such as the TECOM Parking Zone, the tariff is applied from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while Multi-Storey Car Parking facilities operate 24/7. This ensures that drivers and visitors can easily plan their trips and parking during the busy month.

11. Embracing the Spirit of Ramadan

11.1. Importance of Reduced Working Hours

The reduced working hours during Ramadan are not just a legal requirement; they are a way to support employees’ overall well-being. When employees work fewer hours, they are less likely to feel overwhelmed. In addition, the shorter workdays help employees focus on their spiritual practices, family time, and self-care.

11.2. Benefits of a Balanced Work-Life Schedule

Reduced work hours allow employees to:

1. Focus on Spiritual Growth: More time is available for prayers, religious study, and reflection.
2. Improve Health: Reduced stress and better energy levels lead to improved physical and mental health.
3. Enhance Community Engagement: Employees have time to give back to the community by volunteering or donating to charity.

11.3. Encouraging Charitable Activities

Ramadan is also a time for giving back. Many organizations in the UAE run special charity drives, iftar programs for the less fortunate, and community events. By embracing these activities, employees and businesses not only strengthen community bonds but also enrich their own spiritual experiences.

11.4. Participating in Communal Events

Employees are encouraged to:

1. Attend Communal Prayers: Join local mosques or community centers for prayers.
2. Participate in Iftar Gatherings: Share meals with family, friends, or colleagues after sunset.
3. Engage in Religious Study: Take time for reading, reflection, and group discussions on spiritual topics.

12. Business & Customer Service Timings During Ramadan

Businesses in the UAE adjust their opening hours during Ramadan to accommodate fasting employees.

1. Banks & Financial Institutions

1. 🏦 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (some banks may open later).
2. 💵 Services may take longer due to reduced staff hours.

2. Shopping Malls & Retail Stores

1. 🛍️ Open late in the morning but stay open until midnight or later.
2. 🌙 Many shops extend hours after Iftar to accommodate shoppers.

3. Restaurants & Cafés

1. 🍽️ Closed during the day.
2. 🕗 Open from sunset (Iftar) until early morning (Suhoor).

13. Tips for Staying Productive During Ramadan

Even with shorter working hours, productivity must be maintained. Here are some useful tips:

1. Plan Your Work Schedule Smartly

1. 📝 Complete important tasks in the morning when energy levels are high.
2. ⏳ Avoid scheduling meetings late in the day when fatigue sets in.

2. Take Short Breaks

1. 🔄 Regular short breaks can help maintain focus.
2. 😌 Employers should allow rest periods when needed.

3. Stay Hydrated Before Fasting

1. 💧 Drink plenty of water before dawn (Suhoor).
2. ☕ Avoid caffeine, as it causes dehydration.

4. Get Enough Sleep

1. 😴 Sleep early and take power naps if possible.
2. ⏳ A consistent sleep schedule helps maintain energy levels.

5. Avoid Heavy Work in the Afternoon

1. 💼 Schedule lighter tasks in the afternoon when energy levels drop.
2. 🔄 Plan workload accordingly to avoid exhaustion.

Read More in Detail:

Sick Leave in UAE Labour Law

Unpaid Leave in UAE Labour Law

Annual Leave in UAE & Policy in UAE Labour Law

MOHRE - Workers’ Rights & Guidelines

UAE Government - Types of Leave & Entitlements

Disclaimer:

We have taken great care to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, we are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This content is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or professional advice. We do not provide any guarantees or warranties regarding the correctness, reliability, or completeness of the information.

Use this information at your own risk. We do not offer official guidance on UAE labour laws, medical requirements, or visa regulations. Always consult your employer, HR department, a labour law expert, or the relevant government authorities for accurate and official details.

TimeChart is not liable for any consequences resulting from the use of this information, including incorrect results or misinterpretation. By using this content, you agree not to hold TimeChart responsible for any issues that may arise.

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14. Practical Tips for Employees and Employers

14.1. For Employees

1. Plan Your Day: Start with the most important tasks when you have the most energy.
2. Take Short Breaks: Short breaks throughout the day can help you stay focused.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before fasting begins and after breaking the fast.
4. Manage Your Energy: Avoid heavy tasks in the afternoon when energy levels might drop.
5. Respect Colleagues: Do not eat or drink in open areas during work hours, as a sign of respect to fasting colleagues.

14.2. For Employers

1. Monitor Compliance: Use time management tools like TimeChart to ensure adherence to reduced work hours.
2. Provide Flexibility: Allow remote work options, especially on Fridays, to support employees’ personal needs.
3. Communicate Clearly: Make sure all employees are aware of the new work timings and their rights during Ramadan.
4. Encourage a Positive Environment: Support community events and charity initiatives during Ramadan to enhance employee morale.

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15. Summary and Final Thoughts

Ramadan 2025 in the UAE brings about significant adjustments to daily routines, including a reduction in working hours by two hours per day. This change is mandated by the UAE Federal Labour Law and applies to all sectors—including private, public, schools, free zones, and special financial centers like DIFC and ADGM.

In summary:

1. Working Hours: Employees work 6 hours per day instead of 8.
2. Applicability: The reduced hours apply to all employees, whether fasting or not.
3. Sector Variations: Public and private sectors have slightly different timings, and schools and public transport schedules are also adjusted.
4. Enforcement: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) ensures compliance and may penalize violators.
5. Salary: Employees receive full salaries despite the reduced hours.
6. Benefits: The shorter workday supports a better work-life balance, improves overall well-being, and encourages community participation during Ramadan.

By adhering to these guidelines, both employers and employees can create a more balanced, respectful, and productive work environment during this special month.

16. FAQs for Ramadan Working Hours in UAE

1. What are Ramadan work hours in the UAE?
   A: During Ramadan, work hours in the UAE are reduced by two hours per day. Typically, private sector employees work 6 hours a day instead of 8, while public sector employees have similar shortened schedules.
2. Do reduced work hours apply to non-Muslim employees?
   A: Yes, under the UAE Labour Law, the two-hour reduction applies to all employees regardless of their religion or fasting status.
3. Can employers force employees to work extra hours during Ramadan?
   A: No, employers cannot force employees to work beyond the reduced hours. If extra work is required, overtime pay must be provided. Employees have the right to report any violations to MOHRE.
4. Will salaries be reduced because of the shorter work hours?
   A: No, salaries remain unchanged even though employees work fewer hours during Ramadan.
5. What are the office timings for public and private sectors?
   A: In the public sector, offices typically operate from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM (Monday to Thursday) and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays. In the private sector, the timings may vary, but most companies follow a similar reduced schedule, for example, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Monday to Thursday) and 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Fridays.
6. What are the school hours during Ramadan in the UAE?
   A: Schools generally run from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Monday to Thursday) and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays to accommodate students’ religious practices.
7. How do public transport services operate during Ramadan?
   A: Public transport like the Dubai Metro, Tram, and Bus operate on adjusted schedules to meet the needs of the population, with extended night services and early morning start times.
8. What should I do if my employer does not comply with the reduced working hours?
   A: You should report the issue to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) via their helpline, mobile app, or website.

17. Conclusion

In conclusion, the office hours during Ramadan in UAE 2025 are designed to help everyone maintain a balanced work-life schedule while honoring the religious practices of the holy month. The two-hour reduction in working hours is a crucial policy that supports both physical well-being and spiritual growth. Whether you work in the public sector, the private sector, at a school, or depend on public transport, these changes are intended to ensure that everyone can participate fully in the spirit of Ramadan.

By understanding and complying with these guidelines, employers and employees can work together to create a supportive and respectful environment during Ramadan. Remember that if there are any violations of these rules, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is available to ensure compliance and protect employee rights.

We hope this guide has provided you with all the detailed information you need regarding Ramadan work hours in the UAE. For further information or any specific queries, please consult your HR department or visit official government websites.

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