UAE Ramadan Working Hours: What Employers Must Provide
Every Ramadan, UAE working hours shrink by law — and the rule applies far more broadly than many people realize.
Check your Ramadan hours
Enter your normal schedule to see your legally reduced hours.
The rule
Under the Implementing Regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, working hours are reduced by 2 hours per day during the holy month of Ramadan — typically from an 8-hour day down to 6 hours, or 48 hours/week down to 36.
It applies to everyone, not just Muslims
This is a common point of confusion: the reduction applies to all private-sector employees, regardless of religion — it's a blanket labour law provision, not a religious accommodation limited to fasting employees.
No reduction in pay
Crucially, the shortened hours come with no reduction in salary. Employers can't use Ramadan hours as grounds to prorate pay — full monthly salary applies as normal despite the reduced schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Ramadan hours rule apply to part-time employees?
Can my employer make me work the normal hours during Ramadan?
Don't miss it: Check your Ramadan hours
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