The Human Resources Department has issued an official circular fixing the Dubai Ramadan workday for government employees at 9:00 am–2:30 pm Monday–Thursday (5.5 hours) and 9:00 am–12:00 pm on Fridays (3 hours). The circular permits flexible start times and allows eligible staff to work remotely up to two days per week.
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Dubai Ramadan workday, hours, and scope
The circular makes the following provisions for the duration of Ramadan 1447 AH. Public-sector employees will work 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday (5.5 hours). On Fridays, the hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (3 hours). The directive applies to government entities covered by the Human Resources Department.
Remote work and flexible starts
Employees whose duties permit remote work may be authorised to work remotely for up to two days a week, subject to each entity’s operational needs and internal controls. Departments may adopt a flexible morning entry window, allowing staff to start between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., provided the required daily hours are completed.
Operational exceptions
The circular requires entities to maintain on-site coverage for roles that cannot be remote. Departments must finalise rosters or shifts to ensure continuity of public services and essential functions during the shortened hours.
Authority and effective period
The directive was issued by the Human Resources Department of the Government of Dubai and is effective for the duration of Ramadan 1447 AH, as stated in the circular.
The Human Resources Department’s circular prescribes a 5.5-hour workday Monday–Thursday and a 3-hour Friday shift for government employees, while permitting up to two remote days weekly and flexible start times within a fixed window. Departments remain responsible for operational arrangements and service continuity.
