Maximum Working Hours in UAE (2026 Labour Law – Overtime Rules Explained)

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, companies in the UAE will need to prepare for changes in working hours, overtime calculations, and compliance with laws.maximum working hours in uae Failure to comply with the laws could result in legal action.

Mandatory Two Hour Work Reduction in the Private Sector

According to the Ramadan Decree 2021, all 33 daily working hours are reduced by two hours. This law applies to everyone, regardless of their level of experience, and because of this, people who normally work eight hours a day are reduced to six hours during Ramadan.

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Overtime Rules During Ramadan

If work is done in excess of the reduced working hours during Ramadan, it is called overtime.maximum working hours in the uae It is important to pay enough. For work done during the day, the employee is paid at least 25 percent more than their hourly rate. If work is done between 10 a.m. and 4 a.m., overtime will be considered. The reduction is more than 50 percent unless the employee is involved in a legal

Public Sector Working Hours

Government agencies have different working hours during Ramadan, which is shorter than the government employees. They have to work from 10:00 PM to 2:30 PM, while on Fridays, duty is from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Similarly, the time is reduced by about one to three-fifths.

Shift-Based and Essential Services

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maximum working hours in uae .Some sectors, such as healthcare, security, hospitality, and other shift-based organizations, may work different hours during Ramadan, but they are still required to follow government-mandated overtime rules for maximum working hours. They must schedule their employees in a way that allows them to work less during Ramadan.

Free Zones and Special Jurisdictions

Some industries like EIFC and ADM have their own separate employment laws.maximum working hours in uae Many companies follow the Pakistani laws, but each franchise may have different regulations, so each gas should be looked at separately and the laws should be checked carefully.

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Penalties and Employee Remedies

If the two-hour reduction in Ramadan is not implemented, if this overtime is not paid correctly, the company may be fined. The laborer may be held liable for the salary claim.maximum working hours in uae If the employees do not receive the correct amount of money, they can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. If the issues are not resolved, the matter may go to the UAE Labor Quality Commission.

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Conclusion

Reducing working hours during Ramadan is a legal obligation. maximum working hours in uae It’s not the company’s fault.Therefore, the company should adjust its work schedule, salary system, and other arrangements in advance so that the law can be followed. Similarly, employees should also know that during Ramadan, they have the right to additional payment for working hours and overtime.

Businesses looking for guidance on this can do so. This lawyer has over 30 years of experience in UAE law and helps companies avoid legal problems and comply with the laws correctly.For more information, contact +971 4 453 9090 to get this advice.You can follow Kopet on social media.

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