The arrival of the blessed month of Ramzan 2026 is just around the corner and preparations are being made all around the Muslim world to make the best of every precious moment of this auspicious time of the year. Authorities will also be reducing office hours.
Families, institutions, and individuals are making their routines in order to benefit fully from all the spiritual and religious opportunities offered by Ramzan.
UAE Declares Official Working Hours During Ramzan
According to reports from Arab media, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the working office hours for federal ministries and institutions during the holy month of Ramzan 2026.
This provision has been taken for the benefit of the employees, so they can have sufficient time for their worship, spiritual thoughts and take part in religious duties.
Adjusted Working Hours
Under the new schedule, the working hours for federal government offices will be from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Monday to Thursday to give employees a marginally reduced workday during Ramzan 2026.
On Fridays, which are of religious importance for Muslims, the offices would work from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m, so that the staff has more time to attend the Friday prayers and other spiritual activities.
Flexibility and Work From Home
In addition, authorities have authorised that about 70 per cent of employees can be allowed to work from home on Fridays, provided that such arrangements meet the regulations of the respective federal authority.
This measure is to create convenience for the employees in the organisation while striking a balance in the organisational requirements.
Shift-Based Employees
For the employees who work on shifts, individual working hours are going to be defined separately by each institution according to operational needs.
This approach ensures that both the welfare and productivity of the organisation for the employees are maintained effectively.
Concentrate on Spiritual Convenience
The main aim of these changes in the working hours is to give the employees ample time for their day prayers, fasting, iftar preparation, etc.
Expected Start of Ramzan
It is expected that the holy month of Ramzan would start on February 19 in Arab countries this year.
However, the official announcement of the start of Ramzan will only be made after taking the sight of the new moon.
Also read: Ramzan moon sighting on Feb 18: Will fasting begin on Feb 19?
