Doha, Qatar: With the holy month of Ramadan around the corner, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education has announced adjusted working hours for government schools and kindergartens for the academic year 2024-2025. Students will attend classes from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, allowing them to benefit academically during this sacred time. The schedule for administrative and teaching staff, on the other hand, extends until 12:30 PM, ensuring adequate preparation and support for the students' needs.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet has also set new working hours for government offices during Ramadan, as it aims to respect the customs and practices associated with this month. Following recommendations from the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau, all ministries and government bodies will operate for five hours each day, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. There's flexibility for late arrivals until 10:00 AM, provided the work requirements are fulfilled and the five-hour workday is completed.
A unique aspect of the working adjustments is the allowance for remote work. The Cabinet has put forth guidelines allowing no more than 30% of employees to work remotely. This system similarly prioritizes Qatari mothers and individuals with disabilities, aiming to create inclusive work environments.
For those interested in reaching out to the public, Qatar Museums (QM) has also unveiled revised operating hours for its museums and cultural institutions during Ramadan. Visitors can enjoy the exhibitions from Saturday to Thursday between 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and again from 8:00 PM to midnight, with Friday's hours set for 8:00 PM to midnight as well. Notably, the National Museum of Qatar and the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum will be closed on Tuesdays, and the Museum of Islamic Art will remain closed on Wednesdays. The Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art will observe closure on Mondays.
Qatar Museums has curated several engaging activities and events for community members to come together during this Ramadan. This initiative aims to inspire reflection, unity, and cultural exchange, providing interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Notably, the Archeology Department will host open days on March 1 and 15, 2025, inviting the public to explore archaeological sites such as Ain Mohammed and Mesaika. Participants will have the chance to interact with archaeologists and firsthand witness groundbreaking discoveries.
The Museum of Islamic Art will also offer various activities including the Ramadan Escape Room, available every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This captivating experience will immerse participants in themed chambers focused on significant subjects within Islamic scholarship, such as calligraphy and scientific inventions. Another event, Planet Kids Club, is set to take place on March 25, featuring bedtime stories themed around Ramadan.
Meanwhile, the National Museum of Qatar will host workshops, guided tours, storytelling sessions, and live performances, including performances by the beloved artist Musahar, who is known for his unique role of waking communities for Suhoor during Ramadan.
The 321-Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum will engage all fitness fans with the 321 Ramadan Walking Challenge on March 10, encouraging families to stay active. Participants are invited to track their steps using any devices, with recognitions awarded for achievements.
Other notable events include the Liwan for Good workshop on March 12, committed to charitable initiatives throughout Ramadan, and various activities hosted by Dadu, the Children’s Museum of Qatar, and Baladna focusing on creativity and learning for children. The Garangao celebrations will also feature various engaging workshops and storytelling sessions slated for March 13-15.
The historic Mathaf's Ramadan Night will occur on March 13, showcasing traditional performances and art workshops, aiming to celebrate and honor cultural heritage through interactive experiences. Followed by Tasweer’s Ghabga Night, scheduled for March 19, it will feature discussions centered on photography with the talented Qatari photographer Moudhi Alhajri.
This Ramadan period not only emphasizes the adjustments to working hours for seamless productivity but also brings the community together through enriched cultural experiences and family-friendly events, fostering unity during the holy month.