In preparation for the upcoming Ramadan, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced adjusted working hours for public sector employees. As outlined in a recent circular released by The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), these changes aim to accommodate the observance of the Islamic holy month.
Reduced working hours during Ramadan 2024
Starting from Monday, government ministries and federal agencies will operate on a reduced schedule during Ramadan. The new working hours will be from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, operations will run from 9:00 am until 12:00 noon, unless the nature of the work necessitates otherwise.
While certain positions may require extended hours, most private sector employees can also expect a lighter workload during this period. The FAHR has emphasized that ministries and federal agencies can implement flexible work arrangements during Ramadan, provided they adhere to approved guidelines and the designated number of working hours per day.
Moreover, employees may be granted the option to work remotely on Fridays throughout Ramadan, with a limit of 70% of the total workforce, in line with established guidelines.
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Based on the Hijri calendar issued by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan is expected to commence on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
These adjusted working hours are designed to accommodate both fasting and non-fasting employees, enabling them to participate in spiritual activities and cultural practices during this significant month.
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Outside of Ramadan, the UAE federal government operates on a four and a half-day working week, with employees working eight hours a day. Specifically, the standard working hours are from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm from Monday to Thursday, and from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays. Saturdays and Sundays are observed as official weekends for the federal government sector.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
