What are the Working Hours in the UAE? [2024 Guide]

When considering a career in the UAE, many individuals often wonder about the typical working hours.

To provide clarity on this matter and offer a detailed overview, we explore the regulations governing working hours in the UAE.

The cornerstone of employment law in the UAE is Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, also known as the UAE Labour Law.

This legislation applies to all full-time employees working in the UAE, with the exception of government and municipal workers, domestic servants, and agricultural workers.

In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide to the legal working hours in the UAE, including information on overtime regulations and other relevant matters.

Stay tuned to gain a thorough understanding of working conditions in the UAE.

Understanding Work Hours Regulations in the UAE

Exploring the regulations surrounding working hours in the UAE, as well as considerations for rest periods and related matters, is essential for both employees and employers.

It's important to clarify that the UAE Labour Law typically excludes employees in managerial or supervisory positions from its provisions.

Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law outlines the standard working hours, stipulating a maximum of 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week.

However, exceptions apply, particularly in sectors like hospitality, where employees may work up to 9 hours a day.

Certain industries or roles involving physically demanding tasks may see a reduction in working hours for the well-being of employees.

During the holy month of Ramadan, adjustments are made to working hours, typically reducing them by 2 hours in accordance with Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law.

While working hour patterns can vary across companies, a prevalent practice in the private sector is a standard workday from 9 AM to 6 PM.

It's important to note that time spent commuting between home and the workplace is not considered part of an employee's official working hours under UAE labour regulations.

This distinction ensures clarity regarding the boundaries of working time for employees.

Breaks and Prayer Times at Work in the UAE

In the realm of employment, the adage "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy" holds significant truth.

Recognizing the importance of balance, the UAE Labour Law mandates specific provisions for rest periods, meals, and prayer times to safeguard the well-being of employees.

According to the UAE Labour Law:

Rest Periods: Employees should not toil continuously for more than five hours without breaks for rest, meals, or prayers. Such prolonged periods of work without respite can adversely affect health and productivity.
Meal Breaks and Prayer Time: The total duration allocated for rest, meals, and prayers should not be less than one hour. Importantly, these periods should not be counted as part of the official working hours.
Regulation by the Ministry of Labour: For occupations that involve uninterrupted hours of work, such as certain continuous operational roles, the Ministry of Labour oversees the regulation of rest periods, meals, and prayer times to ensure compliance with the law.

These regulations underscore the commitment of the UAE to prioritize the welfare of its workforce.

By enforcing adequate breaks and accommodating religious practices, employers contribute to a healthier and more harmonious work environment, fostering employee well-being and productivity.

It's imperative for both employers and employees to understand and adhere to these regulations to promote a balanced and conducive workplace culture in the UAE.

Overtime Regulations (Article 67 and Article 68) in the UAE

In compliance with the UAE Labour Law, regulations concerning overtime for employees are clearly delineated to ensure fair compensation and adherence to working hour limits.

Overtime, defined as hours worked beyond the standard working hours, carries specific provisions as outlined below:

Article 67 of the UAE Labour Law stipulates that if an employee is required to work beyond their regular hours, they are entitled to their regular hourly wage plus an additional 25% of the defined rate.

However, it's crucial to note that under no circumstances should overtime exceed two hours, as specified in Article 69.

Furthermore, if an employee provides overtime services between the hours of 9 pm and 4 am, they are entitled to their regular hourly wage along with an extra 50% of the defined rate.

It's important to highlight that this provision does not apply to employees working in shift-based roles.

Notably, government employees operate under separate regulations and are not governed by the Federal Decree Law pertaining to overtime as outlined in Article 68.

Weekly Rest Day (Article 70) Regulations in the UAE

In compliance with the UAE Labour Law, organizations in the UAE adhere to specific regulations concerning overtime work for employees.

Overtime, defined as work beyond the standard working hours, is subject to clear guidelines outlined in Article 67 and Article 68 of the Labour Law.

Here are the key overtime rules for organizations:

Compensation for Overtime:

When an employee is required to work beyond their normal working hours, they are entitled to receive their regular hourly wage plus an additional 25% of the defined rate.
Article 69 stipulates that under no circumstances should overtime working hours exceed two hours.

Night Shift Overtime:

Employees who provide overtime services between the hours of 9 pm and 4 am are entitled to their regular hourly wage plus an extra 50% of the defined rate.
It's important to note that this regulation does not apply to employees working in shifts, as their compensation may be governed by different provisions.

Exemption for Government Employees:

Government employees operate under separate regulations and are not subject to the provisions outlined in the Federal Decree Law concerning overtime.

By adhering to these regulations, organizations ensure fair compensation and working conditions for employees who dedicate additional time to their roles.

Clarity on overtime rules helps foster a transparent and equitable work environment in the UAE.

Must Read: UAE Overtime Calculation Guide

Public Holidays in the UAE: What You Need to Know

In accordance with the UAE Labour Law, specific provisions are outlined concerning public holidays and the corresponding regulations for employees in the UAE:

Leave Entitlement on Public Holidays

As per Article 74 of the UAE Labour Law, employees are entitled to official leave with full pay on public holidays recognized in the UAE.

Compensation for Working on Public Holidays

In instances where employees are required to work on public holidays due to operational requirements, Article 81 of the Labour Law dictates compensation measures:

Employees are entitled to either a substitute leave along with a 50% payout of their daily wage.
Alternatively, they may opt for the payment of 150% of their daily wage for the hours worked on the public holiday.

These regulations ensure that employees are fairly compensated and provided with appropriate leave entitlements in recognition of public holidays.

Also Read: Leave Salary Calculation in UAE

Calculating Annual Leave Salary in the UAE

According to Article 75 of the UAE Labour Law, employees who have completed one year of service are entitled to 30 days of annual leave per calendar year.

For those who have served between six months and one year, they are entitled to receive two days of leave for every month worked.

When employees are requested to work during their annual leave, certain conditions must be met:

The annual leave must be carried forward to the following year.
Employees must be compensated for the days worked during their annual leave.
As per Article 78 of the UAE Labour Law, this compensation includes the employee's basic wage along with a leave allowance for the days worked.

Compassionate Leave Policy in the UAE

Contrary to some other jurisdictions, the UAE Labour Law does not specifically mandate compassionate leave for employees in the event of the death of family members.

However, many employers in the private sector offer compassionate leave as part of their employment policies, typically allowing a few days off to attend to family matters following a bereavement.

It's important to note that the provision of compassionate leave in the private sector is at the discretion of the employer and may vary from one organization to another.

Public sector employees, on the other hand, often enjoy more extensive benefits beyond those outlined in the UAE Labour Law.

For instance, they may be entitled to paid bereavement leave, allowing them to take time off following the death of a spouse or close relative.

Also Read: Average Salary in Dubai

Hajj Leave in the UAE: All You Need to Know

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, obligatory for Muslims who are financially and physically capable.

Recognizing the religious significance of Hajj, the UAE Labour Law grants employees 30 days of unpaid leave to perform this sacred duty.

Employees intending to perform Hajj must request this leave from their employers, providing ample notice to ensure smooth operational continuity within the organization.

While Hajj leave is unpaid, employers may offer supportive measures or facilitate arrangements to accommodate employees undertaking this religious obligation.

FAQs

What are the standard working hours in the UAE?

The standard working hours in the UAE, as outlined by Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law, stipulate a maximum of 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week for most employees. However, exceptions exist, particularly in sectors like hospitality, where employees may work up to 9 hours a day.

Are there any adjustments to working hours during Ramadan?

Yes, during the holy month of Ramadan, working hours are typically reduced by 2 hours in accordance with Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law.

How are rest periods, meals, and prayer times regulated in the UAE?

According to the UAE Labour Law, employees should not work continuously for more than five hours without breaks for rest, meals, or prayers. These breaks should total at least one hour and are not counted as part of the official working hours.

What are the regulations regarding overtime in the UAE?

Overtime, defined as hours worked beyond the standard working hours, is governed by Article 67 of the UAE Labour Law. Employees are entitled to their regular hourly wage plus an additional 25% of the defined rate for overtime work. Overtime should not exceed two hours, and employees working between 9 pm and 4 am are entitled to additional compensation.

Are government employees subject to the same overtime regulations as private sector employees?

No, government employees operate under separate regulations and are not governed by the Federal Decree Law concerning overtime as outlined in Article 68.

What are the provisions for public holidays in the UAE?

As per Article 74 of the UAE Labour Law, employees are entitled to official leave with full pay on public holidays recognized in the UAE. Compensation measures for working on public holidays are outlined in Article 81, ensuring fair compensation or substitute leave for employees.

How is annual leave calculated for employees in the UAE?

According to Article 75 of the UAE Labour Law, employees who have completed one year of service are entitled to 30 days of annual leave per calendar year. For those with service between six months and one year, two days of leave are granted for every month worked.

Is compassionate leave mandated by the UAE Labour Law?

No, the UAE Labour Law does not specifically mandate compassionate leave. However, many private sector employers offer compassionate leave as part of their employment policies.

What provisions exist for Hajj leave in the UAE?

The UAE Labour Law grants employees 30 days of unpaid leave to perform Hajj, recognizing its religious significance for Muslims. Employees must request this leave from their employers, and while it is unpaid, employers may offer supportive measures or accommodations.