Ramadan 2024: UAE announces reduced working hours for the holy month

In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan 2024 (Hijri 1445), the UAE’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has issued a circular outlining the official working hours for federal government employees.

According to the circular, ministries and federal entities will adhere to a specific schedule during Ramadan.

Ramadan working hours for government offices

According to the modified schedule, from Monday through Thursday, working hours are set from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. On Fridays, however, there is a reduction in working hours, with employees expected to work from 9:00 am to 12 noon, unless their job responsibilities dictate otherwise.

This translates to a reduction of 3.5 hours less from Monday to Thursday and 1.5 hours less on Friday for the duration of the holy month.

الهيئة تعلن ساعات العمل في شهر رمضان للجهات الاتحادية
مع إمكانية منح المرونة للموظفين للعمل عن بعد يوم الجمعة خلال الشهر ، وبنسبة لا تتجاوز 70 % من إجمالي عدد موظفي الجهة، وفق الضوابط المعتمدة. pic.twitter.com/7NpFc7FfkC

— FAHR (@FAHR_UAE) March 4, 2024

In addition to the prescribed hours, FAHR has emphasised that ministries and federal entities have the flexibility to implement their established flexible working policies during Ramadan, as long as they align with the designated daily working hours.

Furthermore, FAHR has announced that remote work arrangements will be permitted on Fridays. However, only 70 percent of a public entity’s workforce can work remotely, subject to established guidelines.

Expressing goodwill and blessings for the occasion, FAHR has extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the leadership, government, citizens, residents, and the Arab and Islamic nations. Prayers for continued health and prosperity have been offered on this significant occasion.

The issuance of this circular by FAHR underscores the importance of ensuring smooth operations within the federal government during the sacred month of Ramadan while accommodating the spiritual observances of employees.

Ramadan 2024

While the UAE government has yet to announce the official dates for the observance of the month of Ramadan, according to the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), the period of fasting will likely commence on Tuesday, March 12.

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