Is Saturday a Working Day in Dubai?

By Anna Duncan

Is Saturday a Working Day in Dubai?

In Dubai, the concept of a standard working week differs from many other countries around the world. While most countries consider Monday to Friday as typical working days, Dubai has a different approach. In Dubai, the official weekend falls on Friday and Saturday, meaning that Saturday is not a working day for most businesses and government organizations.

Weekend in Dubai

The weekend in Dubai starts on Friday and ends on Saturday. This is because Friday is considered a sacred day for Muslims, who make up the majority of the population in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a whole. Muslims gather for congregational prayers at mosques on Fridays and spend time with their families.

Due to cultural and religious reasons, businesses and government organizations have adjusted their schedules to accommodate this important day. Friday is considered a public holiday, allowing people to take time off work to observe their religious duties or simply relax with family and friends.

Working Days in Dubai

In Dubai, most businesses operate from Sunday to Thursday. Sunday is considered the first working day of the week, while Thursday marks the end of it. This means that employees have a two-day weekend: Friday and Saturday.

It’s important to note that not all industries follow this schedule. Some sectors, such as healthcare facilities, hospitality services, retail stores, and restaurants may still operate during weekends or have alternative arrangements to ensure uninterrupted services for residents and tourists.

Implications for Visitors

If you are planning to visit Dubai or conduct business in the city, it’s crucial to be aware of the local working week schedule. Keep in mind that Saturdays are non-working days for most establishments. This can impact various aspects of your trip, such as scheduling meetings, accessing certain services, or conducting business transactions.

However, Dubai being a global city with a diverse population and a thriving economy, many businesses and organizations do offer services on Saturdays as well. It’s advisable to check the specific working hours of the places you plan to visit or engage with to avoid any inconvenience.

Conclusion

In summary, Saturday is not a working day in Dubai. The weekend starts on Friday and ends on Saturday, with Sunday marking the beginning of the working week.

While most businesses and government organizations follow this schedule, it’s important to be aware that certain sectors may have different arrangements. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, understanding the local working week schedule will help you plan your activities and make the most of your time in Dubai.