Ramadan work mode just got a little more flexible in the UAE… yay!

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is encouraging private sector companies to lean into flexible work environments during the holy month. Basically? Work gets done, but with more balance and slightly less rushing around like you’re in a speed challenge.

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Government vs private sector working hours (the chill version)

Government employees are already in Ramadan slow-mode productivity hours. Working hours are set from 9am to 2:30pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to noon on Fridays. Some federal agencies can even work remotely on Fridays, because why not bring work vibes home too?

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For private sector workers, the rule is simple: two fewer working hours per day. Companies are also encouraged to allow remote work within approved working hours.

 

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The good news…

In a post on X, MOHRE said flexible work helps build a professional culture based on responsibility, respect, and collaboration.

The logic is pretty Ramadan-coded. The holy month is associated with giving, community, and slowing down a little. So the idea is to balance productivity + wellbeing, not just clocking long hours at a desk while thinking about Iftar (relatable).

During the holy month of Ramadan, fostering a flexible work environment that balances productivity with employee well-being, contributes to building a professional culture based on responsibility, respect, and collaboration.#MOHRE #UAE #UAEGov pic.twitter.com/y9qcn5Qecr

— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) February 26, 2026

The private sector checklist (Ramadan edition)

MOHRE also encouraged private companies to:

• Follow the reduced working hours in official circulars

• Keep fasting employees in mind when assigning daily tasks (because heavy physical meetings at 1pm = not ideal)

• Schedule fieldwork around adjusted working hours

• Organise work schedules to keep performance strong while still keeping business moving

• Maintain a respectful and collaborative work environment

The BIG picture

Ramadan keeps reminding workplaces that success isn’t always about long hours. Sometimes it’s about smart planning, stronger balance, and surviving the workday until sunset coffee becomes socially acceptable again.

Work hard. Stay balanced. And hydrate after Iftar.

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