ALBAWABA - The holy month of Ramadan is a special time in the United Arab Emirates, where spirituality and a slower pace of life become the focus for many.
It's a time when family and loved ones get together for meals, where a lot of warm memories are made. And while there is a lot to look forward to in Ramadan, it is also important to keep an eye out on how things around us could change this month, such as work hours.
During Ramadan, daily routines change in various ways across the UAE, here are some of those changes you should keep in mind if you live there:
UAE releases work hours, changes during Ramadan 2024
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Work hours
Work hours are reduced for both fasting and non-fasting employees, allowing everyone to take part in spiritual activities and cultural practices.
The government typically announces shorter working hours for public and private sector workers, with public offices closing early and employees enjoying a two-hour reduction in their workday. Paid parking hours are also adjusted during Ramadan, with specific times for fees to be implemented.
School hours
In schools, academic days are shortened to five hours, and many institutions close for the first three weeks of Ramadan, coinciding with a break in the academic calendar.
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Iftar
Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast after the Maghrib prayer, is a significant daily event where families and friends come together for a special meal. Many hotels and restaurants offer special Iftar menus and discounts to cater to this occasion.
Thanks to the reduced work hours, fasting Muslims will also be able to attend mosques for prayers, with places of worship being full, especially during the Taraweeh prayers offered after the Isha prayer.
Regardless if someone is taking part in Ramadan or not, anyone living in the UAE will be able to feel how special this time of the year is, so in a sense, everyone has something to look forward to in Ramadan.
