The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has shared guidelines encouraging private sector companies to implement flexible work arrangements during Ramadan.
Ramadan began on Wednesday, February 18, in the UAE, bringing changes to working hours for both public and private sector employees.
Government employees are following a reduced schedule, working from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays. Federal ministries and agencies are also allowed to work remotely on Fridays throughout the holy month.
Private sector employees are entitled to two fewer working hours per day. Companies have been encouraged to adopt remote work within the approved working hours to support productivity and employee well-being during Ramadan.
In a post on X, MOHRE highlighted that fostering a flexible work environment during Ramadan helps build a professional culture based on responsibility, respect, and collaboration.
“During Ramadan, promoting a flexible work environment that balances productivity with employee well-being helps cultivate a professional culture rooted in responsibility, respect, and collaboration.
Support for remote work during Ramadan is linked to the month’s reputation as a period of giving and solidarity, with flexible arrangements helping balance productivity and employee well-being.
MOHRE encouraged private sector companies to:
- Adhere to reduced working hours as per approved circulars
- Take fasting into account when assigning daily tasks
- Schedule fieldwork in line with adjusted working hours
- Organise work periods to ensure efficiency and business continuity
- Promote a work environment based on respect and collaboration
Under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, MOHRE is responsible for regulating working hours across the UAE during Ramadan and establishing maximum working hours throughout the year.
