According to the labor laws and regulations in the United Arab Emirates, working hours for employees in both the public and private sectors will be reduced during the holy month of Ramadan.

Considering that Ramadan is likely to begin on February 19, employees in government entities and the private sector are expected to transition to shorter daily work schedules; these schedules are designed to accommodate the fasting conditions and changes in daily life during this month.

According to Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, private sector employers are required to reduce employees' working hours by two hours daily during Ramadan.
This law applies to all private sector employees under the supervision of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and is not affected by job position or seniority level.

Employers may organize work shifts or remote work arrangements if necessary, provided that the condition of reducing daily working hours by two hours is adhered to.

Regarding the public sector, federal and local government entities typically issue separate circulars close to the beginning of Ramadan to announce the specific working hours for this month. These circulars usually include reductions in daily working hours, flexibility in start times, and in some cases, the possibility of remote work based on the operational needs of each entity.

Each emirate and organization may implement additional arrangements in their work schedule for in-person services to clients and essential activities.

Labor guidelines issued in previous years have allowed companies to implement flexible or staggered working hours to maintain productivity while supporting the health and well-being of employees.

Overtime regulations remain in effect, and if employees are required to work beyond the reduced daily hours, these regulations will apply.

Adjusting working hours during Ramadan is one of the longstanding features of the labor system in the UAE, aimed at balancing the continuity of economic activities with social and religious considerations during the month of fasting.

Official details of public sector working hours for this year are expected to be announced before the start of Ramadan through separate circulars.

Source: Gulf News