Dubai Reveals Official Ramadan 2026 Working Hours for Public and Private Sector

Published On: February 15, 2026

Dubai has announced the official Ramadan 2026 working hours for both public and private sector employees. During the holy month, all employees in the emirate will follow a reduced work schedule.

Astronomers predict that Ramadan 2026 will begin on Thursday, February 19, marking the start of the month-long fasting period for Muslims. Once the Hijri month begins, working hours across Dubai and the UAE will be shortened to accommodate the needs of fasting employees.

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources released the revised timings for public sector workers, followed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) confirming the schedule for private sector employees.

The reduced hours aim to support those observing the fast, but the adjustments apply to all employees regardless of religion, ensuring a balanced working environment during Ramadan.

Table of Contents

Private Sector Ramadan Working Hours

For the private sector, the working day will be reduced by two hours throughout Ramadan. This adjustment aligns with Federal Decree Law No. (33) of 2021, which mandates that the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) oversees the regulation of working hours during the holy month.

Private sector employees may also benefit from flexible or remote work arrangements, depending on the nature of their roles. Businesses are encouraged to accommodate employees who are fasting, while ensuring continuity in operations. This approach is designed to support staff during long fasting hours and to promote productivity without overburdening workers.

The reduced hours apply to all employees, regardless of religion, ensuring fairness and creating a supportive work environment throughout the UAE during Ramadan.

Public Sector Ramadan Working Hours

Government employees will follow a structured schedule during the holy month. From Monday to Thursday, working hours will be from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, while Friday hours will end at 12:00 PM. These timings apply to employees whose roles require their presence in the office.

Federal entities are also allowed to implement flexible work policies, enabling employees to work remotely on certain days, including Fridays. This ensures that employees can manage their schedules comfortably while observing Ramadan.

Like the private sector, these measures aim to support all employees, including those who may not be fasting, while maintaining operational efficiency across public sector departments.

Why Reduced Working Hours Are Important

Ramadan is a month of spiritual reflection, fasting, and community in the UAE. Fasting from dawn to sunset can be physically demanding, and shorter working hours help employees balance professional responsibilities with religious observance.

Beyond supporting fasting staff, these changes promote employee wellbeing and encourage workplaces to adopt flexible, humane policies. Over time, these adjustments have become an expected part of Dubai’s work culture during the holy month.

Legal Framework

The reduced working hours in both public and private sectors are mandated under Federal Decree Law No. (33) of 2021, which defines the responsibilities of MOHRE in regulating work schedules throughout the country. The law also sets maximum working hours for all employees, ensuring compliance and consistency across the UAE.

Employers are required to follow these guidelines while also offering flexibility to employees where possible. This includes the option to work remotely or adjust hours based on operational needs.

Planning Ahead

With Ramadan set to begin on February 19, businesses and employees in Dubai are encouraged to plan their schedules early. Reduced hours affect not just office staff, but also service industries, retail outlets, and other sectors that rely heavily on daily operations.

Understanding the new schedule allows companies to manage workloads, adjust meetings, and plan project timelines effectively. Employees can also use the shorter hours to focus on personal and spiritual commitments during the holy month.

More Ramadan and UAE News

Two Ramadans in 2030: The unusual lunar calendar phenomenon and why it won’t happen again until 2063.
Three Eid Holidays in One Year: How UAE residents could experience three Eid celebrations in a single year.
Eid al-Fitr 2026: Expected dates for the long weekend, helping families plan ahead.
Ramadan Fireworks 2026: Key locations across Dubai to enjoy nightly celebrations.

About the Author

Findlay Mair, originally from Scotland, covers news and lifestyle in Dubai. Since moving from Aberdeen, he has focused on uncovering major headlines, cultural trends, and events across the city. Outside the newsroom, Findlay is on a mission to find the best ramen in Dubai, follows Aberdeen FC, and enjoys discovering hidden gems across the emirate.

FAQs: Ramadan 2026 Working Hours in Dubai

A: Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

A: Private sector employees will have a reduced workday of two hours, with some eligible for flexible or remote work depending on their role.

A: Government employees will work 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM from Monday to Thursday and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays, with flexible options available for some roles.

A: Yes, the shortened hours apply to all employees in Dubai, regardless of religion.

A: MOHRE oversees the private sector, while the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources manages the public sector, under Federal Decree Law No. (33) of 2021.

Conclusion:

With the official announcement of Ramadan 2026 working hours, both public and private sector employees in Dubai can plan their schedules with ease. The reduced hours, flexible arrangements, and remote work options demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to employee wellbeing during this sacred month. Whether observing the fast or supporting colleagues, all employees benefit from the adjustments, making Ramadan in Dubai a more balanced and inclusive experience.