Here’s all you need to know about expected working hours, parking timings and more this holy month of Ramadan
As the holy month of Ramadan draws near, the UAE is gearing up for a month of fasting and spirituality.
Additionally, the country will also see a change up in daily routines, ranging all the way from work hours to school schedules and paid parking hours. Of course, there’s plenty of amazing Iftars and Suhoors to keep your eye out for this Ramadan in Abu Dhabi as well.
While the exact start date for the Holy Month is yet to be confirmed, the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) predicts Ramadan will commence on Tuesday, 12 March 2024.
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During the month, both public and private sectors can likely expect reduced work hours for both fasting and non-fasting employees. Pending an announcement from the UAE government, there are also longer weekends in some cases.
For schools, the timings are typically reduced to five hours daily. However, Ramadan falls during the term break this year, meaning schools will likely be closed during the first three weeks of the holy month.
Another area of change are the paid parking hours, which again will announced closer to the holy month. As per last year, Dubai applied fees from 8am to 6pm; and 8pm to 12 midnight Monday to Saturday — giving residents free parking for two hours on weekdays. Sharjah applied fees from 8am to midnight Saturday to Thursday.
Depending on when Ramadan officially commences, Eid Al Fitr dates will be announced towards the end of the period. If astronomers are to be believed, this will fall around 8 April and lead to a six-day break for UAE residents.
Watch this space for official confirmations!
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