UAE Prepares for Ramadan: Will Shorter Working Hours Affect Productivity?
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the United Arab Emirates is preparing for its annual shift in work schedules. With daily working hours reduced by two hours in the private sector and flexible arrangements in the public sector, businesses and employees are evaluating how this change will impact workplace productivity and well-being.
Understanding the Schedule Change
In line with UAE labour regulations and longstanding practice, private sector employees receive a two-hour reduction in their workday during Ramadan. Public sector offices often adopt even more flexible hours or early finishes to accommodate fasting, prayer, and family commitments. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization supports these adjustments to help employees balance spiritual obligations with professional duties.
Productivity: A Temporary Dip or an Opportunity for Focus?
A common concern among employers is whether shorter days will lead to a decline in output. The initial days of fasting can affect energy and concentration as bodies adjust to new sleep and meal schedules. However, many HR experts and organizational behavior specialists suggest that reduced hours can foster greater intentionality.
With less time available, employees may become more efficient, prioritizing essential tasks and minimizing distractions. This can lead to more focused work periods, potentially maintaining or even enhancing productivity per hour.
What Research and Global Trends Indicate
Global studies on flexible and reduced work hours provide relevant insights. Research from Europe and other regions on shorter workweeks has shown that while total hours decrease, hourly productivity often remains stable or improves. Benefits like reduced burnout, higher morale, and better focus contribute to sustaining output. Although this research isn’t specific to Ramadan, the principles of supporting employee well-being to maintain performance are directly applicable.
Business Adaptations for a Smooth Ramadan
Forward-thinking companies in the UAE are proactively adapting by:
Offering flexible start and end times to align with employees’ peak energy levels.
Encouraging remote work where possible.
Promoting clear communication about task prioritization and realistic expectations.
The key is to focus on core deliverables and value-driven work rather than expecting the same output in fewer hours.
Beyond Productivity: Prioritizing Well-Being and Balance
The schedule change is fundamentally about supporting employee well-being. The additional time allows for prayer, rest, and family and community engagement—elements crucial for mental health and social connection. Surveys indicate that UAE professionals increasingly value flexibility, viewing it as a key component of job satisfaction and a healthy work-life balance.
The Road Ahead
As Ramadan nears, the annual adjustment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. By embracing intentional work habits, flexible scheduling, and empathetic planning, businesses can help employees navigate the holy month successfully. This period may ultimately encourage a more purpose-driven and balanced approach to work, benefiting both individual well-being and organizational health throughout the UAE.
