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UAE Reduces Working Hours for Ramadan

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/13/uae-reduces-working-hours-for-ramadan.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 6:24 GMT by moneycontrol.com
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Dubai, UAE - February 13th, 2026 - The United Arab Emirates has once again positioned itself as a regional leader in progressive labor practices by announcing a reduction in working hours for both public and private sector employees during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. The decision, revealed earlier today, builds on a long-standing tradition of acknowledging the unique demands placed on observing Muslims during this period, but also signals a broader, evolving focus on employee wellbeing and work-life balance within the UAE's dynamic economy.

This year, public sector employees will adhere to a 4.5-hour workday throughout Ramadan, a significant decrease from the standard eight-hour schedule. Private sector employees will benefit from a 20% reduction in their daily hours. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed that the directive applies to all businesses operating within the UAE, reinforcing a unified approach to supporting the Muslim workforce.

The announcement has been met with widespread approval from both employees and employers. Employee representatives praised the government's sensitivity to religious practices, highlighting the physical and spiritual demands of fasting. Many expressed relief at the prospect of being able to better manage their religious obligations - prayer, reflection, and community engagement - alongside their professional responsibilities. Employers largely echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that a well-rested and focused workforce is ultimately a more productive one.

However, this year's decision isn't occurring in isolation. Experts note a growing trend of prioritizing employee wellbeing across the GCC region, driven by factors like increasing competition for skilled labor and a rising awareness of the link between mental and physical health and workplace performance. Several neighboring countries are reportedly considering similar measures for Ramadan 2026, closely observing the UAE's implementation and impact.

"The UAE is setting a precedent," says Dr. Aisha Kamal, a labor economist at Zayed University. "For years, Ramadan adjustments were simply a matter of tradition. Now, we're seeing a strategic understanding that accommodating religious observances can boost morale, improve productivity, and attract top talent. This is particularly crucial in a country like the UAE, which relies heavily on a diverse, international workforce."

Beyond the immediate benefits during Ramadan, this move aligns with the UAE's broader 'Vision 2071' initiative, which emphasizes sustainable economic growth driven by human capital. The vision underscores the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. The recent implementation of a four-and-a-half-day workweek, a groundbreaking initiative introduced earlier in 2024, further demonstrates this commitment.

Some analysts predict that the 20% reduction in private sector hours could prompt companies to explore innovative strategies to maintain output. These might include staggered shifts, increased automation, or a greater emphasis on results-oriented work environments rather than simply tracking hours worked. This shift towards prioritizing outcomes could have long-term implications for the UAE's business culture.

MoHRE has released detailed guidelines for employers, outlining compliance procedures and clarifying provisions for sectors requiring continuous operation - such as healthcare and security. The guidelines emphasize the importance of fair and equitable application of the reduced hours policy, ensuring that employees are not penalized for observing Ramadan.

The success of this initiative will be closely monitored by regional governments and businesses alike. If it proves effective in boosting employee morale and maintaining productivity, it could pave the way for more widespread adoption of similar practices, not only during Ramadan but as a year-round component of employee wellbeing programs. The UAE's latest decision underscores its commitment to creating a modern, inclusive, and sustainable work environment that respects both religious traditions and the needs of a 21st-century workforce.