UAE Announces Official Working Hours for Federal Employees During Ramadan

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has officially announced the adjusted working hours for federal government employees during the Holy Month of Ramadan 1446 Hijri. The new schedule, which applies to ministries and federal authorities, ensures that employees can observe the spiritual significance of the month while maintaining productivity.

Official Working Hours During Ramadan

According to FAHR’s circular, the official working hours for federal government employees during Ramadan will be:

• Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

These adjusted hours reflect a reduction of 3.5 hours per day from Monday to Thursday and a reduction of 1.5 hours on Friday compared to the regular working schedule.

Flexible and Remote Work Arrangements

To accommodate the diverse needs of employees, FAHR has permitted ministries and federal authorities to implement flexible working hours and remote work schedules where applicable. However, these arrangements must comply with the approved daily working hour limits.

In particular, up to 70% of federal government employees may be allowed to work from home on Fridays during Ramadan, based on their department’s operational requirements. This initiative is designed to enhance work-life balance while ensuring efficient service delivery.

Regular Federal Government Working Hours

Outside of Ramadan, the UAE’s federal government follows a four-and-a-half-day working week, with standard working hours as follows:

• Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
• Friday: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Weekends: Federal government employees enjoy a two-day weekend on Saturday and Sunday, except for those working in Sharjah, where the official weekend consists of three days: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Ramadan 1446 Hijri Start Date

According to the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan 1446 Hijri is expected to commence on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This date is subject to confirmation based on the official moon-sighting committee’s decision. On February 28, 2025, the committee will convene to determine whether the crescent moon has been sighted, officially marking the beginning of the holy month.

Observing Ramadan in the UAE

Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims, observed with fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, and charitable activities. The UAE government has consistently implemented policies to support employees during this time, ensuring that work schedules are adjusted to accommodate religious observances while maintaining operational efficiency.

The shortened working hours allow employees to fulfill their religious obligations and spend quality time with their families. Additionally, private sector employees in the UAE can also expect reduced working hours, as per labour laws, though exact timings are typically announced separately by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Conclusion

The UAE government’s adjustments to working hours during Ramadan reflect its commitment to supporting employees in balancing their professional and religious responsibilities. The implementation of flexible and remote work arrangements further ensures efficiency while prioritizing employee well-being.

As the holy month approaches, FAHR extends its warmest congratulations to the UAE’s leadership, government, citizens, residents, and the wider Arab and Islamic world. These adjustments serve as a testament to the country’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and considerate work environment during Ramadan.

For further updates and information, employees are encouraged to check official government communications and stay informed through reliable sources.