Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. The UAE government has announced changes to business hours, school timetables, and paid parking rates in preparation for Ramadan 2024, which starts on March 11.
UAE Working Hours
- The regular workday for federal personnel is Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 2:30 pm. The time slot from 9 am to 12 pm is on Fridays.
- The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced a two-hour reduction in the workweek for private sector employees. Work schedule flexibility is something that companies may provide.
School Timings
- The recommended school day length is four hours, but no more than five.
- The hours of operation are 9 am to 12 pm on Fridays. Curriculum and assessments will be adjusted by schools.
Paid Parking Timings in Ramadan
- The time periods for charges in all zones are 8am to 6pm on weekdays and 8pm to 12am on weekends.
- In the TECOM zone, multi-story parks are open all day and charge a fee between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
UAE Public Transport in Ramadan
- The Rail Transit Authority (RTA) has announced changes to the schedules of trains, buses, and boats.
The fasting time might be challenging, but these changes should make it easier. Authorities at the federal and state levels are coordinating their efforts to alleviate citizens’ hardship and streamline operations. Because individuals are fasting for lengthier periods of time (more than 12 hours this year), the shorter hours will give them more time to relax before and after the fast.
Schools are also adjusting to meet the requirements of their pupils by placing less value on innovative lessons and tests. During Ramadan, individuals are able to better arrange their daily activities due to the clear communication of the changed timings.
Conclusion
Finally, in preparation for Ramadan 2024, UAE authorities have reduced working hours, postponed school dismissal times and changed parking and public transit rates. This makes it much easier for those who keep the holy months fast from sunrise to sunset. The community will gain from entities following the rules correctly.
Reference
Gee, S. (2024). Ramadan in UAE: working hours change, free parking and more.
