Shorter working days to be observed for the Holy Month of Ramadan, with flexible options provided for most
Workers in the UAE can anticipate shorter working hours in the UAE for Ramadan 2023. The Holy Month is expected to start on 23 March, however, the actual date will be determined by the sighting of the crescent moon.
The entire country is gearing up for a month of prayer and reflection. And of course, deliciously lavish Iftar and Suhoor spreads, especially across the capital. From changes in parking hours to different work hours, here’s all that is changing ahead of Ramadan this year.
Private sector
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced a reduction of two working hours per day for all employees in the private sector.
According to a circular issued on 13 March, the Ministry said, “In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits of the daily working hours during Ramadan.”
The announcement implements Clause 2 of Article 15 of the Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, regarding the executive regulations of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations and its amendments.
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Public sectors
As for federal entitled, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has outlined the working hours as follows.
During the holy month, ministries and federal agencies will remain open from 9am to 2.30pm from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, the working hours will be limited to three hours, from 9am to 12pm.
Federal authorities also have the option to implement flexible and remote work systems during Ramadan in line with their specific requirements.
Schools
According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), private school timings will be reduced to five hours during Ramadan.
There are two options for schools. First, they could opt to function from 7.45am to 12.45pm from Monday to Thursday, and until 11.45am on Friday.
Alternatively, institutions starting at 8am will end at 1pm from Monday to Thursday, and at 11.45am on Fridays.
The KHDA emphasized that schools must provide a maximum of five hours of instruction time and end instruction by 12pm on Fridays to accommodate Friday prayers. Additionally, fasting students are also exempt from participating in PE classes.
Watch this space for any changes and further updates!
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