Knowing the correct working hours in the UAE isn’t just helpful – it’s essential for both employers and employees.
For private sector employees, the maximum is 8 hours per day (48 hours per week), while public sector employees work 7 hours per day. Understanding these limits helps employers create compliant schedules and allows employees to protect their rights.
This guide explains everything you need to know: standard working hours, Ramadan reductions, overtime rules, flexible work arrangements, and legal protections – so you can stay informed and avoid any penalties.
Standard Working Hours In UAE
Employers must ensure that working hours comply with UAE Labour Law, providing safe and fair schedules for employees. Likewise, employees should be aware of their rights to avoid violations related to overtime, multiple employers, or reduced working hours.
| Category | Private Sector | Public Sector |
| Standard Working Hours | 8 hours/day (48 hours/week) | 7 hours/day (35 hours/week) |
| Overtime Limit | Up to 2 hours/day | Up to 2 hours/day |
| Ramadan Working Hours | Reduced by 2 hours/day | Reduced by 2 hours/day |
| Overtime Pay (Normal) | Basic wage + 25% | Basic wage + 25% |
| Overtime Pay (Night Shift) | Basic wage + 50% (10 PM – 4 AM) | Basic wage + 50% (10 PM – 4 AM) |
| Midday Break (Summer) | Prohibited from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM (June 15 – September 15) | Prohibited from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM (June 15 – September 15) |
For Public Sector
If you belong to the public sector, the time required to work must be seven hours a day. Employees of federal government entities follow a four-and-a-half-day workweek. Saturdays and Sundays are the official weekends for the federal administration sector.
For Private Sector
According to Article 65 of the Labor Law, employees and companies belonging to the working hours in UAE for the private sector must work eight hours per day, or 48 hours per week. The standard working day for the private sector is eight hours per day or forty-eight hours per week, according to new working hours in UAE.
You Can Also Check Out: Emergency Leave as Per UAE Labour Law
What Is Flexible Working Arrangements in The UAE
The UAE Labour Law allows for flexible working arrangements, giving employees and employers the option to adapt schedules to meet business needs and personal circumstances. Employees can work part-time, remotely, or split their hours, as long as the total weekly hours do not exceed the legal maximum.
Working Hours for Pregnant Women & Legal Protections in the UAE
Pregnant employees are legally protected under UAE Labour Law to ensure safety and well-being. Key points include:
- Standard Working Hours: Pregnant employees may continue their usual work hours if it is safe for them.
- Safety First: Employers must provide a safe working environment and reasonable accommodations.
- Leave Protections: Maternity leave and related protections apply as per Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (MOHRE).
- Reasonable Adjustments: Employers may adjust duties or hours to prevent health risks during pregnancy.
- Employee Rights: Pregnant employees cannot be forced into overtime or unsafe work.
See More: Maternity Leave In UAE 2025 – An Ultimate Guide
Overtime Calculation And Employee Rights in the UAE
In the UAE, overtime applies when an employee works beyond standard working hours. The law ensures fair compensation and sets limits.
Step-by-Step Overtime Calculation
- Identify Standard Working Hours
- Private sector: 8 hours/day, 48 hours/week
- Public sector: 7 hours/day, 35 hours/week
- Determine Overtime Hours
- Any work beyond these standard hours counts as overtime.
- Maximum overtime allowed: 2 hours/day
- Calculate Overtime Pay
- Normal Hours (Daytime): Hourly wage + 25%
- Night Hours (10 PM – 4 AM): Hourly wage + 50%
- Check Special Rules
- Employees on shifts may have different rules.
Example Calculation
| Employee Type | Hourly Rate | Hours Worked | Overtime Hours | Overtime Pay Calculation | Total Pay |
| Private Sector Staff | AED 50 | 10 | 2 | 2 × 50 × 1.25 = AED 125 | Regular pay + AED 125 |
| Night Shift Employee | AED 50 | 2 | 2 | 2 × 50 × 1.50 = AED 150 | Regular pay + AED 150 |
How RAAD Assists You in Working Hours in UAE?
RAAD Recruitment specializes in Emiratisation recruitment, Staff outsourcing Services and a recruitment service for Emiratis based in Dubai and is committed to adding value to its services. Compliance with the law is a challenge for many companies, so you can contact the Council for all legal and regulatory matters.
We have a dedicated human resources team that constantly monitors changes in labor legislation to ensure that your business is kept safe.
If you would like to engage our services, you can contact us through our website here. Or if you want to get information about working hours in Dubai for private sector and other articles of your interest, you can visit our insights now.
Conclusion
Knowing the working hours in UAE is crucial for both employers and employees to maintain compliance and protect rights. The law sets clear rules on standard hours, overtime, Ramadan reductions, and protections for pregnant staff. Flexible arrangements and proper scheduling help businesses operate efficiently while ensuring employee well-being. Staying updated on these regulations and seeking expert guidance when needed ensures a legally compliant and productive workplace for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What Are the Standard Working Hours in UAE?
The standard working hours in the UAE are 8 hours per day (48 hours per week) for the private sector and 7 hours per day (35 hours per week) for the public sector. These limits are set by UAE Labour Law to ensure employee rights and employer compliance.
Are Working Hours Reduced During Ramadan in UAE?
Yes. During Ramadan, the working hours for all employees are reduced by 2 hours per day as per UAE Labour Law, to accommodate fasting and religious observance.
How Is Overtime Calculated in UAE?
Overtime is calculated for any hours worked beyond standard working hours. Daytime overtime is paid at the regular hourly rate plus 25%, while night shift overtime (10 PM – 4 AM) is paid at the regular rate plus 50%. Maximum overtime is 2 hours per day.
Can Employees Have Flexible Working Hours in UAE?
Yes. UAE Labour Law allows flexible working arrangements, including part-time work, remote work, and split shifts, as long as the total weekly hours do not exceed the legal maximum.
Are Pregnant Women Entitled to Special Working Hour Protections in UAE?
Yes. Pregnant employees are legally protected. They may continue to work their standard hours if it’s safe, but employers must consider health, safety, and reasonable accommodations for pregnant staff.
Where Can I Check the Average Salary in UAE for Different Jobs?
You can refer to government reports, HR surveys, or trusted industry sources to know the average salary in UAE. This helps in planning fair pay for overtime and complying with labour laws.
