Kuwait Reduces Ramadan Work Hours Ahead Of National Day

In a move that underscores Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to supporting its workforce during the holy month of Ramadan, the municipal council has officially announced new, reduced working hours for government employees throughout the country. The decision, made public on February 5, 2026, marks a significant adjustment aimed at aligning work schedules with the unique spiritual and social rhythms of Ramadan.

According to the announcement, all government departments and institutions in Kuwait will operate on a four-hour workday schedule during Ramadan. Employees are now expected to work from 9 AM to 1 PM, a change that both reflects longstanding regional traditions and responds to the practical needs of workers observing the fast. The announcement, as reported by multiple local sources, was the result of careful coordination between the municipal council, the private sector, and the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ensuring that the new policy would be implemented smoothly and with broad support.

The shortened hours are not only a nod to religious observance but also a reflection of Kuwait’s broader approach to employee welfare. By adjusting the workday, the government aims to foster a more accommodating environment during a month that is both physically demanding and spiritually significant for the majority Muslim population. Ramadan, which is expected to begin in early March in 2026, is a time when Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, and the reduced hours are designed to help workers balance their professional responsibilities with religious duties and family commitments.

This year’s announcement comes at a particularly meaningful moment for Kuwait, as the nation prepares to celebrate two major milestones: the 65th National Day and the 35th Liberation Day. The official celebrations are set for Tuesday, February 10, 2026, and are expected to draw a host of dignitaries, diplomats, and citizens together in a display of national pride and unity. The dual anniversaries serve as a powerful reminder of Kuwait’s journey—its struggles, triumphs, and the enduring spirit of its people.

The National Day marks the country’s independence from British protection, while Liberation Day commemorates the end of the Iraqi occupation in 1991. These dates are etched into the national consciousness, and their joint celebration this year is being hailed as a testament to Kuwait’s resilience and the solidarity of its people. As the Kuwaiti embassy in Cairo noted in a recent statement, "Liberation Day is an eternal national occasion that reflects the unity and steadfastness of the Kuwaiti people, confirming the depth of fraternal relations with sisterly and friendly countries."

It’s not just the government and diplomatic corps that are gearing up for the festivities. Across Kuwait, preparations are underway for public events, cultural displays, and community gatherings. The streets are being adorned with flags and banners, and schools are organizing special programs to educate younger generations about the significance of these historic milestones. The sense of anticipation is palpable, and the reduced working hours during Ramadan are likely to further enhance the celebratory atmosphere, giving families more time to come together and reflect on their shared heritage.

The decision to coordinate the announcement with both the private sector and the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry is particularly noteworthy. It highlights the government’s recognition that public policy must be crafted in dialogue with business leaders and civil society. By ensuring that the private sector is informed and involved, the authorities have taken steps to minimize disruption and maintain economic stability during the holy month.

For many Kuwaiti workers, the new schedule is more than just a practical adjustment—it’s a gesture of respect and understanding from their government. Ramadan is a period marked by increased devotion, charity, and community engagement, but it can also be physically taxing, especially for those balancing demanding jobs with fasting. The four-hour workday, running from 9 AM to 1 PM, offers a reprieve from the usual pressures and allows employees to focus on their spiritual and familial obligations.

While the announcement focuses specifically on government employees, the coordination with the private sector suggests that many private companies may follow suit, adopting similar schedules to accommodate their staff. This would not be without precedent; in previous years, numerous businesses in Kuwait and across the Gulf region have voluntarily introduced reduced hours during Ramadan, recognizing both the cultural importance of the month and the practical needs of their employees.

Kuwait’s approach to Ramadan working hours is part of a broader regional tradition. Throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, it is common for public and private sector entities to shorten the workday during Ramadan. These policies are often seen as a way to promote social cohesion and support the well-being of workers, while also ensuring that essential services continue to operate efficiently. In Kuwait, the four-hour day is seen as a balanced solution, allowing for productivity while respecting the religious and cultural context.

The timing of the announcement—just days ahead of the National Day and Liberation Day celebrations—adds an extra layer of significance. It signals the government’s intent to foster not only a supportive work environment but also a sense of unity and shared purpose as the nation commemorates its most important historical events. The participation of diplomatic figures in the upcoming celebrations further underscores Kuwait’s strong international relationships and its role as a bridge between regional and global partners.

Looking ahead, both government officials and ordinary citizens appear optimistic about the impact of the new schedule. Many see it as an example of responsive governance, with the authorities taking concrete steps to address the needs of their people. As one official put it, "This decision reflects the state’s interest in providing a suitable work environment that aligns with the special nature of the holy month."

With the holy month of Ramadan fast approaching and the nation preparing to mark two landmark anniversaries, Kuwait stands at a moment of reflection and celebration. The new working hours, carefully coordinated and widely welcomed, are just one part of a broader effort to honor tradition, support the workforce, and bring the country together in a spirit of unity and pride.