With Ramadan 2025 nearing, the UAE private sector workers can look forward to shorter working hours according to labor regulations. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has established specific work schedule and overtime pay rules for the holy month.
According to UAE labor law, private sector employees have the right to two hours of less daily work without deduction of salary. This is applicable to all employees irrespective of their religious belief, except for those in posts exempted from regular labor legislation.
For staff who must work outside the reduced Ramadan working hours, overtime payment is obligatory. In case of overtime more than two extra hours a day, employees can complain to MoHRE. The law obliges overtime pay to have at least 25% additional payment, which doubles to 50% for night shifts (10 PM to 4 AM).
Employers should comply with Ramadan working hour laws to prevent legal conflicts. Workers who undergo violations, like being deprived of overtime allowance or compelled to work long hours, are free to lodge complaints in MoHRE’s official mechanisms, including the Tawjeeh centers and MOHRE smart app.
