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Rawan Haddad
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Rawan Haddad

RAMADAN UAE WORKING HOURS

RAMADAN UAE WORKING HOURS

Ramadan in UAE is just around the corner–two weeks, in fact. According to one astronomer, Ramadan 2023 will begin on March 23rd. But we are still waiting on confirmation by the UAE`s moon-sighting committee. Like in previous years, all public and private sector businesses, government entities, and organisations across the country will observe reduced working hours during the month.

This year, residents can host Iftar (the meal taken after sunset to end the Ramadan fast) gatherings for friends and family without any kind of restrictions. Masks are not required to be worn by worshippers inside mosques or any public places in the country. With that in mind, let`s look at the UAE Ramadan 2023 from all aspects.

Ramadan UAE working hours for the public sector 2023

The UAE`s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has announced the working hours for the public sector during the holy month of Ramadan.

During Ramadan in UAE, which is expected to begin on March 23rd, working hours for all public organisations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the northern emirates will be reduced by two hours, from 8 am to 2 pm – Monday to Thursday.

In Ramadan, Friday will see those entities open from 8am to 11.3am—or three hours.

The authority said the decision was in line with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to ensure that employees have enough time to perform their religious duties and enjoy quality time with their families.

Ramadan UAE working hours for the private sector 2023

During Ramadan, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has announced that the working hours for the private sector will be reduced by 2 hours per day. The reduced working hours will apply from sunrise to sunset.

Contracted hours vary in the private sector, with many members of staff typically working for nine hours each day.

"In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits of the daily working hours during the days of Ramadan," the ministry said.

In addition, MOHRE said in a circular that the working day would run from 9am to 2.30pm from Monday to Thursday, and from 9am until noon on Fridays.

It is important for employers to be aware of the new regulations and to ensure that their employees are aware of the new working hours during Ramadan.

Ramadan 2023 sale begins in the UAE

Shoppers can benefit from up to 75 percent off on over 10,000 food and non-food products during the holy month. Several retailers have announced reductions in prices which will have a positive economic impact on consumers.

Here is the list of hypermarkets and supermarkets offering deals on Ramadan in UAE:

Lulu has also announced a `price lock` initiative, specifically for the Ramadan shopping season. As part of the initiative, more than 200 products have been selected to be sold at the same price, irrespective of market conditions, throughout Ramadan, which will help shoppers save money.

Shoppers can buy over 10,000 basic food and nonfood products during the holy month as the Dubai-based retailer launched its Ramadan UAE campaign offering discounts of up to 75 percent on essential products.

Majid Al Futtaim-owned retail giant Carrefour launched discounts of up to 50 percent on more than 6,000 products and will also boost stock availability by 15 percent to meet the increased demand throughout the fasting month.

The retailer also offers good discounts to shoppers as part of the company`s initiative to support the community during the holy month.

Over 50 Al Maya Supermarkets will launch promotions and discounts for 45 days on more than 480 items including beverages, frozen foods, fresh produce and other grocery items.

Four-day Ramadan Eid

The first day of Eid Al Fitr is likely to be on Friday, April 21. UAE residents will enjoy a four-day weekend for the Islamic festival, with the break likely to be from Thursday, April 20, to Sunday, April 23.

FREQUENTLY QUESTIONS ABOUT RAMADAN IN THE UAE

Should all UAE employees work 2 hours less during Ramadan?

As per the latest announcements, the UAE Ramadan working hours have been reduced by two hours for the private sector. Those who are not of the Muslim faith are also entitled to Ramadan UAE working hours.

How many hours should Muslims work during Ramadan in the UAE?

Employees in government departments and offices based in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, RAK, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm al Quwain will have a five-and-a-half-hour workday – from Monday to Thursday. Offices on Fridays will be open from 8 am to 11.30 am.

How many days are Muslims expected to fast in Ramadan 2023?

Muslim residents in the UAE will fast from dawn until sunset for 29 or 30 days during Ramadan 2023, depending on the moon sighting.

How will Ramadan be observed in Dubai this year?

If you are a new resident in Dubai, you may wonder what you can do during the blessed month. Besides reduced UAE Ramadan working hours, there is a lot you can do during Ramadan 2023 in Dubai. For example, malls in Dubai are expected to stay open longer. So, you can count on some late-night shopping. You can also book a table at any iftar tent or your favourite restaurant.

How can I make the most of Ramadan 2023?

Giving back to the community is one of the best ways to make the most of 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 get in touch with any of the Ramadan charities in Dubai to do your part.

To get timely updates about Ramadan and other festivities in the UAE, stay tuned to Driven Properties.

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