UAE Ramadan Working Hours 2026: Office and School Timings Reduced

Office and school hours across the UAE are shortened during Ramadan, with both employees and students benefiting from reduced daily schedules throughout the holy month.

Under UAE labour regulations, all employees in the public and private sectors are entitled to shorter working hours during Ramadan, regardless of whether they are fasting. Schools also adopt adjusted timetables to accommodate prayer times and the physical demands of fasting.

Ramadan working hours in the UAE

During Ramadan, official working hours are reduced by two hours per day for all employees nationwide. The policy applies equally to public and private sector staff and is designed to support wellbeing and productivity during the holy month.

Private sector working hours during Ramadan

Private sector employees are entitled to a two-hour reduction from their standard daily working hours. However, exact start and finish times vary depending on company policies and operational requirements.

Key points include:

• The two-hour reduction applies to all employees, including non-fasting staff

• Employers can decide how reduced hours are implemented

• Many companies offer flexible schedules, later start times, or remote work options

• Hybrid and work-from-home arrangements are common, particularly on Fridays

While flexible working policies are not mandatory, many employers introduce them to support staff during Ramadan.

Public sector working hours during Ramadan

Federal government entities follow fixed Ramadan schedules each year. For Ramadan 2026, official public sector timings are expected to follow this structure:

• Monday to Thursday: 9:00am to 2:30pm

• Friday: 9:00am to 12:00pm

Local government departments may apply similar schedules, with minor variations depending on departmental requirements.

School hours during Ramadan in the UAE

Schools across the UAE also move to shorter schedules during Ramadan. Students typically attend a maximum of five hours per day, allowing earlier dismissal and alignment with prayer times.

Parents are advised to confirm exact school timings directly with administrators, as schedules may vary between institutions.

Friday school timings

On Fridays during Ramadan, schools close earlier to accommodate prayer schedules:

• Schools typically close at 11:30am

• This aligns with the updated Friday prayer time of 12:45pm

When does Ramadan 2026 begin?

According to Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) Hijri-to-Gregorian calendar conversion tool, Ramadan is expected to begin between February 17 and February 19, 2026.

Based on current projections, the holy month is likely to start on February 19, 2026, subject to official moon sighting.

Ramadan is expected to end on Thursday, March 19, 2026, although the exact duration will depend on crescent moon visibility and may last either 29 or 30 days.

As Ramadan approaches, residents across the UAE are advised to stay updated with official announcements regarding confirmed dates and any schedule adjustments.