The United Arab Emirates has formally announced adjusted working schedules for federal government employees in anticipation of Ramadan 2026. According to the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, standard operational hours from Monday through Thursday will be shortened to 9:00 AM until 2:30 PM. Fridays will feature an even more condensed schedule, running from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM. These provisions include allowances for personnel whose roles necessitate alternative arrangements.
Furthermore, federal ministries and entities have been granted optionality in their implementation strategies. They may either adhere to pre-established flexible work regulations throughout the workdays of Ramadan or authorize remote working arrangements for up to 70% of their staff on Fridays, contingent upon compliance with approved regulatory controls.
Astronomical projections from the Abu Dhabi-based International Astronomical Centre suggest the holy month is anticipated to commence on February 19, 2026. Engineer Muhammad Shawkat Odeh, Director of the Centre, indicated that crescent moon sighting on February 17th is deemed virtually impossible across the Islamic world. Nonetheless, the official commencement date remains subject to confirmation by moon-sighting committees, which will convene on the 29th day of Shaban for a definitive proclamation.
This announcement aligns with the UAE’s standardized four-and-a-half-day public sector workweek, which was instituted in January 2022, designating Saturday and Sunday as the official weekend. It is noteworthy that the emirate of Sharjah maintains a distinct public sector schedule, operating on a four-day week with a three-day weekend (Friday-Sunday).