The anticipation for Ramadan in Muslim-majority countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia revolves around sighting the crescent moon, signaling the beginning of the holy month. In 2024, the moon was sighted on March 10, marking the start of Ramadan on March 11. This event, dependent on the lunar calendar, carries immense spiritual significance and sets the stage for a month of reflection, prayer, and communal celebration.
Work Hours Adjustment
During Ramadan, adjustments in work hours are made to accommodate the religious practices of employees. In the UAE, federal employees will work reduced hours from Monday to Thursday and shorter hours on Fridays, with ministries and federal agencies operating from 9am to 2:30pm and until 12 noon on Fridays. Private sector employees will also see a reduction in work hours, with the option for flexible or remote work schedules.
Government Employee Benefits
In some emirates like Umm Al Quwain, government employees enjoy extended weekends during Ramadan, with Friday to Sunday designated as the weekend. This arrangement allows for a balance between work commitments and religious observances.
Service Hours and Facilities
Service centers such as the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs adjust their working hours during Ramadan, aligning with the reduced hours for government employees. Similarly, adjustments are made to paid parking hours and public transport timings to accommodate the needs of residents during the holy month.
Educational Institutions
Schools in the UAE adjust their timings during Ramadan, ensuring that instruction time does not exceed five hours, with a preference for shorter durations. Additionally, school hours on Fridays are limited to three hours, allowing students to observe religious practices while maintaining their educational commitments.
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Cultural destinations like Dubai’s Global Village adapt their opening and closing hours to accommodate Ramadan schedules, allowing visitors to enjoy iftar and suhoor offerings along with cultural experiences during the evening hours.
Humanitarian Initiatives
Ahead of Ramadan, leaders in the UAE demonstrate compassion and mercy by pardoning prisoners and settling their financial liabilities. Philanthropic efforts, such as those led by businessman Firoz Merchant, aim to reunite prisoners with their families by securing their release and providing support for their reintegration into society.
The observance of Ramadan in the UAE encompasses various aspects of daily life, from work and education to cultural activities and humanitarian initiatives. Through adjustments in schedules and compassionate gestures, the spirit of Ramadan is upheld, fostering unity, empathy, and devotion within the community.
