Are Ramadan office, school hours shorter?

What employees, parents and students should know about reduced schedules during the month of fasting

- BY ZAINAB HUSAIN Features Writer

During Ramadan, working hours and school hours are reduced across the UAE, giving employees and students shorter days throughout the holy month.

Under UAE labour regulations, all employees are entitled to reduced working hours, while schools also operate on adjusted schedules to accommodate fasting and prayer times.

Reduced working hours during Ramadan in the UAE

During Ramadan, working hours are reduced by two hours per day for all employees in both the public and private sectors. This applies regardless of whether an employee is fasting.

Private sector

Private sector employees are entitled to a two-hour reduction from their normal daily working hours.

Many companies also introduce flexible working arrangements, including later start times or remote work options, particularly on Fridays.

Public sector

Federal government entities follow set Ramadan timings:

Local government departments may follow similar schedules, though slight variations can apply.

Some employers introduce flexible hours or remote working policies during Ramadan to support employee wellbeing and productivity. These arrangements are not mandatory but are commonly adopted, especially in office-based roles.

School hours

Schools across the UAE also operate on shortened schedules during Ramadan.