Complete guide to the Ramadan 2026 working hours in the UAE

• Public Sector Timings
• Private Sector Timings
• School Timings
• Public Transport Timings
• FAQs

The holy month of Ramadan is the period of spiritual reflection and community. Government institutes across the UAE announce reduced working hours during Ramadan in the UAE. It is essential to stay informed of the work hours during Ramadan to balance professional commitments with the month’s observances.

With the first day of Ramdan likely to fall on February 19, 2026, authorities have started to announce the Ramadan working hours in the UAE across commercial and governmental entities. These Ramdan office timings in the UAE for 2026 ensures all employees, regardless of their faith can enjoy a more flexible schedule.

UAE Ramadan working hours For public sector 2026

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has announced reduced public sector working hours during Ramadan in the UAE. Ministries and federal agencies in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the northern emirates will follow the uniform timing of 9:00 am to 2:30 pm Monday to Thursday.

Since Friday is a working day, government entities shall remain open from 09:00 am to noon. The Friday (Jumah) prayers will begin at 12:45 pm, so all public sector employees will have enough time to attend the congregational prayers.

Public sector working hours in Ramadan in the UAE apply to all government organisations, including federal entities like the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and local public sector entities like the Dubai Municipality.

Furthermore, ministries and federal departments are permitted to follow remote work policies during Ramadan in the UAE, subject to operational requirements.

UAE Ramadan working hours for the private sector in 2026

In accordance with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation guidelines, all private sector working hours during Ramadan will be reduced by 2 hours regardless of faith, role and seniority.

All institutions in the country’s private sector are expected to comply with the UAE law on Ramadan working hours.

Ramadan UAE working hours for schools

Students will enjoy shorter school hours during the holy month, as announced by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

KHDA announced that all schools must provide a maximum of five hours of instruction from Monday to Thursday. Classes, however, must end no later than 11:.30 am on Fridays to accommodate Jummah prayers.

Please contact the schools directly for exact school timings.

UAE Ramadan 2026 public transport timings (RTA)

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have announced the hours of public transport in the emirate during the holy month.

DUBAI METRO

Dubai Metro will operate as per the following schedule:

DUBAI TRAM

There will be no change in Tram schedule either.

• Monday to Thursday: 06:00 am to 01:00 am (next day)
• Weekend: 09:00 am to 01:00 am (next day)

BUS

Bus timings during Ramadan will vary as per the route. To confirm timings, you can check the S’hail app.

PUBLIC PARKING

Tariff will be applied from Monday to Saturday:

• First shift: 08:00 am to 06:00 pm
• Second shift: 08:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Free parking is available during Iftar from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

FAQs

Do private sector employees get reduced working hours during Ramadan?

Yes, there will be a reduction of 2 hours in working hours for private employees during Ramadan.

Are non-Muslim employees entitled to reduced working hours during Ramadan?

Yes, non-Muslims are also entitled to a 2-hour reduction in office timings during Ramadan as the decision is independent of faith, seniority and role.

Can companies offer flexible working hours during Ramadan in the UAE?

Yes, companies in the UAE can offer flexible working hours for their employees during Ramadan. While the reduction of two working hours is mandatory for all private sector employees, the exact working structures are left to the employer’s discretion.

How are overtime hours calculated during Ramadan in the UAE?

In accordance with the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), overtime hours in the UAE during Ramadan are calculated by adding a minimum 25% increase to the employee’s basic hourly wage for standard daytime extra hours. This applies to any work performed beyond the mandatory reduced six-hour shift.

How can I make the most of Ramadan 2025?

Giving back to the community is one of the best ways to maximise Ramadan’s blessings. You can always reach out to those less fortunate during the blessed month. Many charitable organisations in the UAE make the prospect easier. So, you can contact Ramadan charities in Dubai to do your part.

For many, the holy month is the most anticipated time of the year, requiring thoughtful preparation to balance spiritual goals with daily life. To ensure you are fully ready for the month ahead, you can explore our practical tips to prepare your home for Ramadan or read our guide on how to stay healthy during Ramadan in Dubai to maintain your energy while fasting.

Precision is also key during the holy month as you can bookmark Dubai prayer timings during Ramadan for accurate salah, suhoor and iftar time!

Stay tuned to MyBayut for all the latest updates on Ramadan 2026 in Dubai and the rest of the UAE. Ramadan Kareem!