The holy month of Ramadan is set to begin on March 1, 2025, and with it come significant adjustments to working hours across the United Arab Emirates. These changes, aimed at accommodating the lifestyle of Muslims during this holy period, are applicable to both government and private sectors.
According to the Sharjah Department of Human Resources (SDHR), government departments, authorities, and institutions will operate from 9:00 AM until 2:30 PM during Ramadan. For departments operating on a shift basis, they are encouraged to set their own schedules based on specific work requirements.
This announcement was echoed by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), which has also set the official working hours for ministry and federal authorities at the same time slots. FAHR noted, "Official working hours for ministries and federal authorities will be from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM from Monday to Thursday, and from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday." This framework ensures standardization across federal sectors, allowing for streamlined operations during the fasting month.
The ministry has implemented flexibility to cater to varying work conditions. FAHR allows federal organizations to adopt remote working policies and flexible schedules based on operational needs. There’s even provision for up to 70 percent of staff to work from home on Fridays, ensuring all staff can balance work commitments with religious observances.
On the other side, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) has confirmed reductions of two working hours per day for private sector employees during Ramadan 2025. "According to 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," stated the ministry. This reduction is consistent with Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, which regulates labor relations, offering workers some relief during the fasting period.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy and the Consulate General have also announced adjusted service hours during Ramadan. From Monday to Thursday, their services will operate from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM, and on Fridays from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM, ceasing regular office hours until after Eid Al Fitr. For those needing urgent assistance, the embassy has provided several emergency contact numbers, ensuring support is available even with adjusted hours.
These changes reflect the UAE's commitment to accommodating the fasting month, promoting a work-life balance among its diverse workforce, and fostering adherence to cultural and religious practices. Together, these adjustments symbolize respect for Ramadan, making workplaces more inclusive and respectful of employees' needs.
Throwing light on the significance of this holy month, various authorities have conveyed their best wishes to the people of the UAE and the broader Islamic community, emphasizing unity and compassion during Ramadan.