Ramadan 2025: UAE reduces working hours for private sector

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has officially reduced the working hours for private sector employees during Ramadan 2025 by two hours.

This reduction will be in place to accommodate those observing fasting during the holy month, which is expected to begin around March 1 or 2.

The ministry announced the change via the social media platform X, stating, “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.” This initiative aims to offer employees the flexibility to better manage their work-life balance during the fasting period.

In addition to this announcement, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has outlined the official working hours for federal government employees during Ramadan 2025. According to an official circular, government ministries and authorities will operate from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm Monday through Thursday, and from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays.

Furthermore, FAHR has allowed ministries and federal authorities to implement flexible or remote work patterns in line with their specific operational needs, provided they adhere to the approved daily working hours.

Additionally, up to 70 percent of federal government staff will be allowed to work from home on Fridays during Ramadan, according to the established guidelines.

This move is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to support employees during the holy month of Ramadan while maintaining workplace productivity.

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