As Ramadan 2025 approaches, daily life in the UAE will undergo several adjustments. The holy month, expected to begin on March 1, brings shorter working hours, altered parking fees, and revised school schedules. “Ramadan 2025 changes” will affect many aspects of routine life, from office timings to toll charges. Here’s what to expect this year.
Shorter Working Hours for Private Sector
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) confirmed that private-sector employees will work two hours less each day during Ramadan. Companies can offer flexible or remote work within these reduced hours. This change follows Article 15 (2) of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022. All workers, including non-Muslims, qualify for these reduced hours without a pay cut.
Adjusted Timings for Federal Authorities
Government employees will also see changes in their schedules. According to the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), official working hours will be from 9 AM to 2:30 PM from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, work will end earlier at 12 noon.
Parking and Salik Adjustments
Parking fees in Dubai will follow new timings. Instead of 8 AM to 10 PM, the new Ramadan schedule will be 8 AM to 6 PM and 8 PM to 10 PM. Multi-storey parking will still require payment 24/7. Meanwhile, Sharjah extended its paid parking hours from 8 AM to midnight.
Salik, Dubai’s toll system, introduced variable pricing on January 31. During Ramadan, peak hours will run from 9 AM to 5 PM, charging Dh6. Off-peak hours (7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 2 AM) will cost Dh4. Sundays will maintain the Dh4 charge during both peak and off-peak hours. There will be no charges between 2 AM and 7 AM on any day.
Shorter School Hours Expected
The UAE has yet to confirm Ramadan school timings for 2025. However, previous years suggest that schools will operate for a maximum of five hours per day. On Fridays, classes are likely to end by noon.
Supermarkets, Malls, and Restaurant Hours
Grocery stores and supermarkets will continue to operate as usual. Malls will extend their hours into the night to accommodate those fasting. Most restaurants will remain closed during daylight hours, opening after evening prayers. Some venues will serve food in enclosed areas or offer takeaway and delivery services.
Fasting Hours and Moon-Sighting
Astronomers predict that Ramadan 2025 will last 30 days, with daily fasting lasting up to 13 hours. Eastern UAE regions will begin Suhoor and Iftar about 20 minutes earlier than western areas. Official moon-sighting will take place on February 28 to confirm the start date.
With “Ramadan 2025 changes” shaping daily routines, residents should prepare for altered schedules, new toll rates, and modified public services. Stay informed about “Ramadan 2025 changes” to plan accordingly during this sacred month.
