Mashable: Umm Al Quwain, one of the emirates in the U.A.E., has brought some delightful news for government employees ahead of Ramadan. The emirate announced that government workers will enjoy extended weekends during the holy month, with Fridays to Sundays designated as their days off. This move aims to facilitate a better work-life balance and accommodate religious observances during Ramadan.

Under the new schedule, government employees will work five and a half hours from Monday to Thursday, starting from 9 am to 2:30 pm. This adjustment allows them to have ample time for rest and prayer, contributing to a more relaxed and productive work environment.

This initiative aligns with efforts across the U.A.E. to accommodate the spiritual and cultural significance of Ramadan. Other emirates have also implemented measures such as reduced work hours and remote work options, particularly on Fridays, to support employees during this sacred month.

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has officially announced shorter working hours for both public and private sector employees during Ramadan. Ministries and federal agencies will operate from 9 am to 2:30 pm from Monday to Thursday, with working hours reduced to 9 am to 12 pm on Fridays. Exceptions may apply based on job requirements.

الهيئة تعلن ساعات العمل في شهر رمضان للجهات الاتحادية
مع إمكانية منح المرونة للموظفين للعمل عن بعد يوم الجمعة خلال الشهر ، وبنسبة لا تتجاوز 70 % من إجمالي عدد موظفي الجهة، وفق الضوابط المعتمدة. pic.twitter.com/7NpFc7FfkC — FAHR (@FAHR_UAE) March 4, 2024

For federal employees, this translates to working 3.5 hours less on weekdays and 1.5 hours less on Fridays, providing them with valuable time for religious practices and personal pursuits.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has also introduced measures for the private sector, reducing working hours by two hours each day. Additionally, MoHRE has encouraged companies to adopt flexible or remote work arrangements within the framework of daily working hours during Ramadan.

The Ministry announces a reduction of 2 working hours per day for private sector employees during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The Ministry said: “In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits… — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) March 4, 2024

It's important to note that these adjustments apply to both fasting and non-fasting employees, reflecting the U.A.E.'s commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse religious practices.

According to the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is expected to commence on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, as per the Hijri/Islamic calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD).