As the holy month of Ramadan 2025 approaches, residents in the UAE can expect key adjustments to daily life. From shorter working hours and adjusted school schedules to updated parking timings, Salik charges, and business operations, here’s everything you need to know.

Ramadan Start Date & Significance

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred time marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Based on astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on March 1. However, Islamic nations will conduct an official moon sighting on February 28 to confirm the exact start date.

How Ramadan Affects Daily Life in the UAE

During Ramadan, various aspects of daily routines in the UAE are modified to accommodate fasting hours. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:

1. Shorter Working Hours for Private Sector

  • Private sector employees will have their workday reduced by two hours, as per Article 15 (2) of the UAE Labor Law (Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022).
  • This applies to all employees, including non-Muslim workers, without a salary deduction.

2. Adjusted Working Hours for Government & Federal Authorities

  • Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
  • Fridays: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Timings are regulated by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).

3. Revised Paid Parking Hours

During Ramadan, Dubai’s paid parking schedule is adjusted:

  • Regular Timings: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Ramadan Timings:
    • Morning: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Evening: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Multi-storey parking buildings remain paid 24/7.

4. Changes to Salik Toll Charges

Dubai’s Salik toll system will introduce updated peak and off-peak pricing:

  • Weekdays & Weekends:
    • Peak hours (9 AM – 5 PM): AED 6
    • Off-peak hours (7 AM – 9 AM & 5 PM – 2 AM): AED 4
  • Sundays & Public Holidays: AED 4 flat rate
  • No charges apply between 2 AM – 7 AM.

5. Shortened School Hours

  • Official school timings for Ramadan 2025 have not been confirmed yet, but they are expected to follow last year’s guidelines.
  • In 2024, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) mandated:
    • Max 5 hours of school per day.
    • Fridays end by 12 PM.

6. Grocery & Mall Timings

  • Supermarkets & Grocery Stores: Operate as usual.
  • Shopping Malls: Open late into the night to accommodate post-Iftar shoppers.

7. Restaurant Opening Hours

  • Most restaurants remain closed during the day and reopen after Maghrib (sunset) prayers.
  • However, some offer daytime services in enclosed areas or for takeaway and delivery.

Ramadan 2025 Duration & Fasting Hours in UAE

  • Ramadan 2025 is expected to last 30 days based on astronomical predictions.
  • Fasting hours will increase to 13 hours per day as the month progresses.
  • The eastern regions of the UAE will experience Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (breaking fast) earlier than the western regions, with a 20-minute time difference.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, community, and fasting, and the UAE ensures that adjustments in work, traffic, and business schedules accommodate those observing the holy month. Whether you’re planning your commute, working hours, or social activities, being aware of these changes will help you navigate the month smoothly.

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