The UAE government has officially confirmed the Ramadan working hours for federal public sector employees, bringing clarity and reassurance to thousands of workers across the country. The announcement, made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, outlines adjusted working times and continued flexibility measures designed to support employees during the holy month.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, devotion, and community for Muslims across the UAE. Recognising the spiritual significance of the month, the government has once again introduced shorter working hours to help employees balance professional responsibilities with religious commitments.
Official Working Hours During Ramadan
According to the official announcement issued on 11 February 2026, federal ministries and government entities will operate on reduced schedules throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
From Monday to Thursday, working hours will run from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM. On Fridays, employees will work from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM.
These adjusted timings apply to all federal government entities across the UAE. The reduction in working hours aligns with long-standing national practice during Ramadan, ensuring employees have additional time for prayer, family gatherings, and rest.
The decision reflects the UAE leadership’s continued commitment to employee wellbeing and work-life balance, especially during important religious periods.
Flexible Work Policies Remain in Place
In addition to the reduced hours, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed that ministries and federal entities may continue to implement their approved flexible work policies during Ramadan.
This means that government departments can maintain hybrid models and staggered schedules, provided they comply with established regulations. The flexibility aims to enhance productivity while accommodating employees’ spiritual and personal needs during the month.
Importantly, remote work will also remain an option. On Fridays, up to 70 per cent of staff may work remotely, in line with existing rules. This measure provides further convenience for employees, reducing commuting time and allowing greater focus on worship and family.
The continuation of flexible work arrangements demonstrates how the UAE public sector has evolved in recent years, embracing modern workplace practices without compromising operational efficiency.
A People-Centred Approach
The UAE has consistently demonstrated a human-focused approach to governance, and the Ramadan working hours announcement is no exception. Shorter workdays during Ramadan are more than an administrative adjustment; they are a reflection of cultural respect and national values.
For many employees, Ramadan brings changes in daily routine, including fasting from dawn to sunset. Reduced working hours help ease physical demands while allowing workers to remain productive and engaged. By setting clear guidelines early, authorities have ensured that both employees and government departments can plan ahead effectively.
The decision also supports families. With earlier finishing times, parents can spend more time at home, prepare for iftar meals, and participate in community prayers. These adjustments strengthen social bonds and enhance overall wellbeing during the holy month.
Operational Continuity Across Ministries
While working hours are reduced, government services will continue to operate smoothly. Federal entities are expected to organise internal schedules to maintain service delivery standards.
Essential services will remain fully operational, ensuring that residents and businesses across the UAE experience no disruption. Ministries are encouraged to manage workforce distribution strategically, particularly with the allowance for up to 70 per cent remote work on Fridays.
This balanced approach ensures that the needs of the public remain a priority, while also supporting employees during Ramadan.
Supporting Productivity During Ramadan
Reduced hours do not necessarily mean reduced productivity. In fact, many government entities have found that focused schedules during Ramadan can enhance efficiency.
Shorter working days often encourage clearer prioritisation of tasks and more effective time management. By combining flexibility with structured hours, federal departments can continue meeting performance goals while fostering a supportive work environment.
Employees are also encouraged to make use of flexible arrangements responsibly. Clear communication between managers and team members will play a key role in maintaining workflow continuity.
Reinforcing the UAE’s Work Culture
The UAE’s public sector has increasingly integrated flexible policies over the past few years. The continuation of remote work options during Ramadan signals confidence in these systems.
Hybrid work models have become part of everyday operations for many ministries. The Ramadan schedule demonstrates how such policies can be adapted to cultural and religious contexts without affecting service standards.
This approach reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a forward-thinking nation that values both tradition and innovation.
Clear Guidance for Federal Employees
The announcement provides certainty for federal government employees ahead of Ramadan. With the schedule confirmed well in advance, staff can make personal and professional arrangements accordingly.
Departments are expected to communicate internal guidelines to ensure smooth implementation of the new hours. Employees should check with their respective human resources teams for any entity-specific procedures related to flexible or remote work.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has emphasised that all adjustments must align with official regulations, maintaining fairness and consistency across federal entities.
A Month of Reflection and Balance
Ramadan remains one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar. Across the UAE, communities come together for prayer, charity, and shared meals. The government’s decision to shorten working hours reflects a deep understanding of the month’s spiritual importance.
By reducing office hours and allowing flexible arrangements, authorities are helping employees achieve better balance during this sacred time. The announcement ensures that public servants can fulfil both professional duties and religious obligations with ease.
As the holy month approaches, federal employees across the UAE can prepare with clarity and confidence, knowing their working hours have been thoughtfully adjusted to reflect the spirit of Ramadan.
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