The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in the UAE has announced a reduction of two working hours per day for all employees in the private sector during the holy month of Ramadan. T
his move follows the implementation of Clause 2 of Article 15 of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 regarding the executive regulations of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labor Relations and its amendments.
The UAE labour law stipulates that private sector workers are required to work eight hours per day or 48 hours per week, but during Ramadan, working hours are reduced by two.
When will Ramadan begin in the UAE?
Ramadan is predicted to begin on March 22, with the confirmed dates to be announced according to the sighting of the moon. Muslims fast for up to 14 hours a day during the Holy Month, with the duration of the fast increasing by a few minutes each day.
The fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar, which typically includes dates and other traditional foods.
During the Holy Month, Muslims are expected to abstain from food, drink, and smoking during daylight hours. In addition to fasting, the month is a time for spiritual reflection and growth.
UAE schools to take a two-week break during Ramadan
Various schools across the UAE are expected to receive a two-week break during Ramadan, giving students the opportunity to spend time with their families and observe the religious practices of the month.
Spring break could reportedly fall during the Holy month, and students can also expect shorter school hours during Ramadan. Last year, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) directed all schools in Dubai to hold classes for no longer than five hours per day during the holy month.
Ramadan rules for residents and tourists in the UAE
Non-Muslim residents and tourists in the UAE are expected to follow certain rules during Ramadan. They must not engage in any aggressive behavior, dance or play music in public, wear inappropriate clothing in public, swear as blasphemy is considered extra offensive during Ramadan, refuse a gift or an invitation to join someone at iftar, or eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. However, it is not mandatory for non-Muslims to fast.
Eid al Fitr date UAE
As per astronomical charts, Eid Al Fitr in the UAE will fall on Thursday, April 20, and will last until Sunday, April 23. The exact dates of the holy month and Eid Al Fitr will be confirmed by the moon-sighting committee closer to the time. However, the UAE Cabinet confirmed holiday dates last year in November for public and private sectors in the UAE.
Overall, the UAE’s reduction of two working hours per day for all employees in the private sector during Ramadan is a welcome move that is sure to be appreciated by the country’s Muslim population.
With shorter working hours and school breaks, Muslims will have more time to observe the religious practices of the Holy Month, including fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
Non-Muslims in the country are also expected to show respect for the holy month by following certain rules and guidelines. As always, the UAE is committed to ensuring that all of its residents and visitors are able to live and work in harmony, regardless of their religious beliefs or backgrounds.