What Are the Working Hours in Dubai?

By Anna Duncan

Dubai is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and thriving business environment. If you are planning to work in Dubai or are simply curious about the working hours in this dynamic city, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the typical working hours in Dubai and shed light on some important aspects to consider.

Working Days

In Dubai, the standard working week is from Sunday to Thursday. This differs from many Western countries where Monday to Friday is the norm. The weekend falls on Friday and Saturday in Dubai, aligning with traditional Islamic practices.

Working Hours

The working hours in Dubai can vary depending on the sector and individual companies. However, there are some general guidelines that can give you a good idea of what to expect.

Private Sector:

  • The typical working hours for the private sector in Dubai are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM with a one-hour lunch break.
  • Some companies may have slightly different timings, such as starting work at 8:30 AM or ending at 5:30 PM.

Government Sector:

  • In the government sector, working hours are usually from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM with a half-hour lunch break.
  • During Ramadan (the holy month for Muslims), government sector working hours are typically reduced by two hours.

Overtime and Flexibility

Dubai has regulations in place that govern overtime work. According to the UAE Labor Law, employees are entitled to receive extra compensation for any work done beyond normal working hours. This compensation is usually calculated based on the employee’s basic salary.

It’s important to note that some companies in Dubai may require their employees to work additional hours or on weekends. In these cases, companies often provide compensatory time off or additional pay as per the labor law regulations.

Conclusion

In summary, the working hours in Dubai generally follow a Sunday to Thursday pattern for the private sector and a Saturday to Wednesday pattern for the government sector. Private sector working hours typically range from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while government sector working hours are from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. It’s essential to be aware of your specific company’s policies regarding overtime and flexibility.

Remember, these are typical working hours, and there may be variations depending on your industry and employer. It’s always a good idea to confirm the exact working hours with your employer before starting any job in Dubai.