UAE announces reduced work hours for private sector during Ramadan
Working more hours than the shortened schedule may be seen as overtime.
The UAE declared shorter work hours for private sector workers during Ramadan. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) mentioned that work hours would be decreased by two during the holy month.
The Ministry announces a reduction of 2 working hours per day for private sector employees during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) March 4, 2024
The Ministry said: “In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits…
Businesses can choose to adopt flexible or remote work arrangements as long as they adhere to the daily working hours set for Ramadan and align with the nature of their work.
In the Emirates, private sector employees usually work eight to nine hours a day. During Ramadan, this will be shortened by two hours daily. Any extra hours worked beyond this reduced schedule could be considered overtime, and workers would receive additional compensation for it.
As per the Hijri calendar released by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan is expected to start on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
The reduced working hours apply to both fasting and non-fasting employees, allowing them to engage in spiritual activities and cultural practices during Ramadan.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) issued a circular establishing the official working hours for federal authorities during Ramadan. Ministries and federal agencies will operate from 9 am to 2:30 pm from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, working hours will be from 9 am to 12 noon, unless the nature of the work requires otherwise.
News Source: Khaleej Times