Ramadan In UAE: Reduced Work Hours, Free Parking And Other Rules You Must Know

According to the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan is likely to begin on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

The Holy Month brings with it changes in working hours, school timings, rules for restaurants and cafes in the city and much more. While a detailed list of timings will be rolled out closer to the start of the Holy Month, here’s what you must expect.

Working Hours

Reduced working hours apply to both fasting and non-fasting employees. This allows employees to incorporate spiritual activities and cultural practices during the month. The UAE government regularly announces reduced working hours for both public and private sectors. While some jobs require longer hours, most employees in the private sector can cut their workday by two hours. Government offices are often closed early, and working hours for public servants are reduced to six hours instead of the usual eight.

School Timings

School days are usually reduced to five hours a day. However, most schools will be closed for the first three weeks of the Holy Month this year. Institutions will be closed for spring break or the end of the year around this time.

Parking

Paid parking hours may change during Ramadan. These will be announced closer to the Holy Month. Last year, charges were made in Dubai between 8am and 6pm; and 8pm to 12pm from midnight Monday to Saturday — with residents getting two hours of free parking on weekdays. Sharjah implemented the tax from 8am to midnight from Saturday to Wednesday.

Restaurants And Cafes

Business runs as usual in most restaurants in Dubai. While non-Muslims do not have to refrain from eating and drinking in public during the day, others may choose to do so out of respect for the fasting people. Those fasting break their fast with Iftar, after the Maghrib call. Iftar is usually a time when family and friends come together and enjoy a special meal.