Work, School, and Transport: What to Expect During Ramadan 2025 in the UAE

Friday, 28 February 2025

As Ramadan approaches, daily routines in the UAE will see significant adjustments, ensuring a smooth balance between work, education, and spiritual observance. From reduced working hours to revised school timings, updated parking fees, and changes in toll charges, here’s everything you need to know to navigate the holy month with ease.

Table of Contents

• Working Hours During Ramadan
• UAE Workweek Structure
• School Timings During Ramadan 2025
• Parking Timings During Ramadan
• Salik Toll System During Ramadan
• Global Village Dubai: A Must-Visit Cultural Destination
• Frequently asked questions

Working Hours During Ramadan

To support employees in observing Ramadan while maintaining productivity, the UAE implements reduced working hours across both the private and public sectors.

Private Sector Adjustments

• Reduced Work Hours: Employees will work two hours less per day throughout Ramadan.
• Applicable to All: This reduction applies to both Muslim and non-Muslim employees without any salary deduction.
• Legal Basis: Governed by Article 15 (2) of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022.
• Flexible & Remote Work Options: Employers may offer remote work or flexible hours, provided they adhere to the daily work hour limits.
• Work-Life Balance: These adjustments ensure businesses stay productive while employees can focus on their spiritual observance.

Public Sector Adjustments

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has introduced revised working hours for government employees to balance professional and religious commitments.

Key Adjustments for Public Sector Employees:

• Monday to Thursday: 9 AM to 2:30 PM
• Friday: 9 AM to 12 PM
• Remote Work on Fridays: Up to 70% of government employees can work remotely, depending on job requirements and employer discretion.
• Objective: To enhance work-life balance while maintaining government efficiency during Ramadan.

UAE Workweek Structure

The UAE follows a four-and-a-half-day workweek, though schedules vary across emirates.

Standard Workweek Structure:

• Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
• Friday: 7:30 AM – 12 PM (Half-day)

Workweek Variations Across Emirates:

• Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah: Follow the standard four-and-a-half-day workweek.
• Sharjah: Operates on a four-day workweek (Monday to Thursday) with a three-day weekend (Friday to Sunday).

School Timings During Ramadan 2025

While official announcements are yet to be made, schools are expected to follow a similar schedule to previous years, ensuring students maintain a balanced academic routine.

Expected School Schedule:

• Reduced School Hours: Private schools will likely operate for a maximum of five hours per day.
• Friday Timings: Classes are expected to end by 12 PM.
• Regulatory Authority: Timings are typically set by Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

Parking Timings During Ramadan

Dubai’s paid parking hours will be adjusted to accommodate changes in daily routines and increased evening activity.

Revised Parking Hours:

• Regular Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM
• Ramadan Timings:
  • 8 AM – 6 PM
  • 8 PM – 10 PM (Break during Iftar hours)
• Multi-Storey Parking: Remains payable 24/7 (No changes).

Salik Toll System During Ramadan

Starting January 31, Dubai’s Salik toll system will introduce variable pricing, with adjustments expected during Ramadan to accommodate changes in traffic flow.

Revised Salik Charges:

• Peak Hours (9 AM – 5 PM): Dh6 per crossing
• Off-Peak Hours (7 AM – 9 AM & 5 PM – 2 AM): Dh4 per crossing
• Sundays (excluding public holidays): Dh4 throughout the day
• No Toll Charges: Between 2 AM – 7 AM

Global Village Dubai: A Must-Visit Cultural Destination

Dubai’s Global Village is a vibrant cultural hub where visitors can experience traditions, cuisines, and entertainment from around the world.

What’s On for Season 29

• Season Dates: Runs from October 16, 2024, to May 11, 2025.
• Expanded Attractions: Three new pavilions added, bringing the total to 30 unique pavilions.
• Exciting Activities: Offers live performances, entertainment, and global cuisine.
• Revamped Areas:
  • Railway Market, Floating Market, and Fiesta Street redesigned with new concepts.
  • New Green Promenades enhancing the visitor experience.

Global Village Season 29 Opening Hours:

• The family destination has announced new operating hours for the fasting month.
• Sunday to Wednesday: Open from 5 PM to 1 AM.
• Thursday to Saturday: Open from 5 PM to 2 AM.
• The timings have been adjusted by one hour from the usual schedule.

With reduced work hours, adjusted school schedules, revised parking fees, and toll updates, the UAE ensures a seamless transition into Ramadan 2025. These changes help residents balance daily life with spiritual observance, making the holy month more manageable and meaningful.