The holy month is arriving earlier this year, and for UAE residents, that brings some welcome news. Astronomers are predicting a “Winter Ramadan” for 2026, meaning cooler temperatures and significantly shorter fasting hours compared to the summer months of the past decade.
If you are planning your leave, waiting for the official Moon sighting UAE 2026, or just wondering about office timings, here is everything you need to know about Ramadan 1447.
When is Ramadan 2026 in UAE?
While the official start date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon (Hilal) by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee, astronomical calculations give us a very accurate window.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, or Thursday, February 19, 2026.
This puts the holy month squarely in the UAE’s winter season. Unlike the peak summer Ramadans of 2015 or 2016 where temperatures hit 45°C, this year, residents can expect pleasant daytime highs of 24°C to 26°C.
The ‘Winter Ramadan’ Advantage: Shorter Fasts
One of the biggest differences this year is the duration of the fast. Because the days are shorter in February, fasting hours will be approximately 13 hours and 15 minutes at the beginning of the month.
- Fajr (Dawn): Around 5:25 AM
- Maghrib (Sunset): Around 6:15 PM
For those fasting, this helps significantly with hydration and energy levels. For commuters, it means the “Iftar Rush Hour” on Sheikh Zayed Road will happen a bit earlier, likely peaking between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
UAE Labour Law Ramadan Working Hours
This is the most common question we get: “Do I get shorter hours if I am not fasting?“
Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), the answer is a clear Yes.
- Private Sector: All employees are entitled to a 2-hour reduction in their daily working hours during Ramadan. This applies to everyone—Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
- Public Sector: Government entities usually move to a specific shift, often Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, and shorter hours on Fridays (ending around 12:00 PM).
Important: If you work these two extra hours, it should theoretically count as overtime, though many contracts have specific clauses for this. Always check with your HR.
School Timings & Daily Life
Parents should look out for circulars from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) or local education regulators.
- School Days: Typically shortened to around 5 hours.
- Parking: Paid parking hours usually split into two shifts (morning/afternoon and evening) to accommodate Iftar and Taraweeh prayers.
Eid al Fitr 2026 Holidays UAE
Looking ahead to the end of the month, the Ramadan end date 2026 is likely to be around March 19 or 20.
This means Eid Al Fitr 2026 could fall on Friday, March 20, giving residents a potential 3-day or 4-day long weekend depending on the moon. It’s the perfect time for a short staycation before the humidity kicks in around April.
What to do next?
For now, keep an eye out for the official announcement from the UAE Moon Sighting Committee on the 29th of Sha’ban (likely February 17, 2026). Until then, enjoy the cool weather!
Planning for Iftar? Check out our guide on – Affordable Iftars in UAE 2026: Where to Find the Best Dubai Ramadan Meals Under Dh200
