During the holy month of Ramadan, the UAE has formally established updated working hours for federal government employees. Public sector workers will work from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM Monday through Thursday, according to confirmation from the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (Fahr). Working hours will be further shortened on Fridays, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Employees will therefore put in 1.5 hours less on Fridays and 3.5 hours less on weekdays.
These timings will not apply to certain personnel whose job functions need different hours. Federal agencies and ministries are permitted to maintain flexible work schedules as long as they respect daily deadlines. Departmental policies may allow up to 70% of workers to work from home on Fridays.
According to the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Ramadan is anticipated to start on March 1, 2025. The crescent moon is expected to be visible on the evening of February 28, marking the beginning of the holy month, according to the UAE’s International Astronomy Centre. On Shaban 29th, official moon-sighting committees will confirm this.
