As Ramadan approaches—expected to begin Saturday, March 1, 2025—the UAE has officially announced shorter working hours for both government and private sector employees. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) confirmed on Monday that private sector workers will benefit from a two-hour reduction in daily working hours throughout the holy month.
This adjustment complies with Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 under the UAE Labour Law. Companies may implement flexible or remote working arrangements, provided they stay within daily working hour limitations and meet their operational requirements.
Overtime Rules During Ramadan 2025
While Ramadan brings reduced working hours, some employees may still be asked to work beyond their regular schedule. According to Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, any work performed outside the adjusted Ramadan hours qualifies as overtime.
Important Overtime Limitations
Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 (Article 15) states that employers may request overtime work, but this cannot exceed two additional hours per day. Exceptions exist only when work is necessary to:
- Prevent substantial loss
- Address serious accidents
- Mitigate consequences of emergencies
In all circumstances, total working hours must remain below 144 hours every three weeks.
Who Is Exempt From Overtime Pay?
Not all positions qualify for overtime compensation. Clause 4 of Article 15 outlines these exceptions:
Exempt Positions:
- Chairpersons and board members
- Supervisory staff with employer-level authority
Exempt Occupations:
- Naval vessel crew members with specific service conditions
- Employees in technically essential roles requiring continuous operations (averaging 56 weekly hours)
- Workers handling preparatory or complementary tasks that must extend beyond standard hours
Filing Complaints for Excessive Overtime
If your employer requires you to work beyond the permitted two-hour overtime limit, you have the right to file a complaint with MOHRE through these channels:
By Phone: Call MOHRE’s Labour Claims and Advisory centre at 800 84 for assistance.
Online Filing:
- Use the MOHRE mobile app or visit their website
- Go to ‘Services’ and select ‘Add Violation’
- Choose ‘Exceeding overtime by two hours’ from the dropdown menu
- Provide your details:
- Emirate
- Full name
- Mobile number
- Company contact information and address
- Submit your complaint
- Save your reference number for tracking
Key Takeaway
During Ramadan 2025, UAE private sector employees are entitled to reduced working hours by law. While overtime may be requested, it cannot exceed two hours daily except in special circumstances. Employees facing excessive overtime demands have clear options to file official complaints through MOHRE. Understanding these rights helps maintain proper work-life balance during the holy month while protecting your entitlements under UAE labour regulations.
Last updated: 26 February 2025
JobXDubai 
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