The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. ARCHIVE

Ramadan is expected to start on March 1 this year, according to the Emirates Astronomy Society. In the UAE, preparations are underway to accommodate the spiritual and practical needs of the holy month, a significant period for Muslims worldwide. Ramadan commemorates the Quran’s revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and involves fasting from dawn to dusk. To support this observance, the UAE government traditionally reduces work hours by two hours for all employees during Ramadan. Ministries and federal authorities may implement flexible or remote work schedules to further facilitate fasting and prayer times for employees. Commuting time is typically excluded from working hours, except for certain specified categories of workers under UAE labour laws. Schools across the UAE also adjust their schedules during Ramadan, with shorter school hours to accommodate students and staff participating in fasting and other religious activities. The exact start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the moon, which will be confirmed by the UAE’s Moonsighting Committee closer to the anticipated date. Ramadan is not just a period of fasting but also a time for reflection, community bonding, and charitable activities among Muslims worldwide. ICA/Expat Media
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