Working week and holidays in Dubai

What is the working week like in Dubai?

In Dubai, as in the rest of the United Arab Emirates, the working week is closely linked to Islamic culture and local regulations. The standard work week for the private and public sectors runs from Sunday to Thursday, which differs from the typical Western work week of Monday to Friday. Working hours in Dubai can vary depending on the industry, but are typically 8 to 9 hours per day, with a lunch break. In the private sector, hours are often from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., although in some cases work may start earlier or finish later, particularly in retail and services.

In the public sector, working hours in the United Arab Emirates are often slightly shorter, usually from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. However, it is important to note that during Ramadan, working hours are reduced, usually by two hours per day, to accommodate fasting and allow employees to maintain a balance between their professional and religious lives. Ramadan and work in Dubai is a particularly important topic, as this holy month affects the rhythm of life throughout the emirate, from office opening hours to restaurant operations.

Before traveling to Dubai, it is a good idea to book accommodation and plan attractions in advance, as popular places fill up quickly.

Is the weekend in Dubai on Friday and Saturday?

Yes, in Dubai and throughout the UAE, the weekend officially falls on Friday and Saturday. This is related to the Islamic tradition, in which Friday is a day of prayer, considered the holiest day of the week. However, in 2022, the UAE introduced a change, moving the weekend from Friday and Saturday to half a day on Friday (after prayers) and full Saturday and Sunday in the public sector. However, in the private sector, Friday and Saturday remain standard days off.

Many visitors may be surprised to learn that Friday in Dubai is a day when public life slows down a bit. Shops and malls are open, but many of them operate on reduced hours until afternoon prayers are over. Saturday is a more “typical” weekend day, ideal for relaxing, shopping, or sightseeing.

Working Sunday in Dubai

Unlike many Western countries, where Sunday is a day off, Sunday is a working day in Dubai. This may be surprising at first for those accustomed to the European or American work calendar. Sunday in Dubai is a full working day in both the private and public sectors. Offices, schools, and government offices operate as normal, and the city is bustling with activity. For expats, who make up the majority of Dubai's population, adjusting to this rhythm sometimes requires a change in habits, but it quickly becomes a natural part of life in the emirate.

What public holidays are celebrated in the Emirates?

Holidays in Dubai and throughout the United Arab Emirates can be divided into two categories: movable and fixed holidays, which are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and the Gregorian calendar. The Islamic calendar plays a key role, as most religious holidays in the UAE are based on the lunar calendar, which means that their dates vary each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar.

Major public and religious holidays in the UAE:

• Hijri New Year - This day marks the beginning of the new year in the Islamic calendar. It is a public holiday, celebrated with respect, but without major public celebrations.
   
• Eid al-Fitr - The holiday ending Ramadan, usually lasting 2 to 4 days off. It is a time of joy, family gatherings, and gift-giving.
   
• Eid al-Adha - The Feast of Sacrifice, commemorating Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. This is another important religious holiday that includes several days off.
   
• Arafat Day - The day before Eid al-Adha, often also a public holiday, especially for public sector employees.
   
• UAE National Day (December 2) - Celebrated in honor of the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. It is one of the most important national holidays, celebrated with parades, fireworks displays, and cultural events. Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Mawlid al-Nabi) - A day commemorating the birth of the Prophet, celebrated in a more reflective manner.

In addition to these holidays, there may be additional public holidays in Dubai, which are announced by the government, e.g. on the occasion of important national or religious events. It is worth noting that in the case of movable holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, the exact dates are announced in advance, depending on the observation of the moon.
Would you like to know how New Year's Eve is celebrated in Dubai?

Ramadan and work in Dubai

Ramadan and work in Dubai deserve a separate mention, as this month has a huge impact on everyday life. During Ramadan, which lasts about 30 days, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. As a result, working hours are reduced and many companies adjust their schedules to allow employees to balance their professional and religious obligations. For example, instead of the standard 8 hours, employees may work 6 hours a day. Restaurants and cafes are often closed during the day.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about Ramadan.

Questions and answers

1. Does Dubai celebrate Christmas?

As a city in a Muslim country, Dubai does not officially celebrate Christmas as a public holiday, but the expat Christian community and tourists can celebrate privately in hotels that organize special events. Shopping malls and hotels often decorate their spaces with Christmas trees and offer festive attractions to attract international visitors.

2. Do companies in Dubai work on public holidays?

In Dubai, businesses are generally closed on official public holidays such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and UAE National Day, when most offices and institutions are closed. However, in the service, retail, and tourism sectors, working on public holidays is common to meet the needs of residents and tourists.

3. Are Ramadan and Eid celebrated in Dubai?

Ramadan is one of the most important periods in Dubai, during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. At this time, the city adapts to a unique rhythm of life – working hours are shortened and special events are organized.

Ramadan is followed by Eid al-Fitr, a joyful holiday lasting several days that brings families together for shared meals, gatherings, and gift-giving. Another important holiday is Eid al-Adha, also celebrated with great reverence and accompanied by prayers, days off from work, and religious ceremonies.

4. How many days off work are there in Dubai?

In 2025, 14 days off work are planned in Dubai for national and religious holidays. However, the exact number of days off may change slightly, as the dates of Islamic holidays depend on the phases of the moon.