Hours of work in United Arab Emirates

Standard Hours in the UAE

In the UAE, working hours are regulated under federal labour law to ensure fair treatment, health, and safety of employees.

Standard working hours

The standard workweek is 48 hours, typically 8 hours per day over six days. During Ramadan, employees are entitled to reduced working hours, typically reduced by 2 hours each day.

Rest day

Employees are entitled to at least one paid rest day per week, usually on Friday or Sunday, depending on company policy and sector.

Maximum Working Hours & Overtime Laws in the UAE

In the UAE, maximum working hours and overtime are regulated to ensure employee well-being and work-life balance.

Maximum daily & weekly hours

Under normal conditions, employees may not work more than 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. However, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation may approve alternative arrangements for certain industries, such as hospitality.

Overtime pay rate

Employees may not be required to work more than two hours of overtime per day unless necessary to prevent a severe loss or accident.

Any hours worked beyond the statutory maximum must be compensated:

• Daytime overtime: Basic salary plus 25% supplement.
• Night-time overtime (between 10 pm and 4 am): Basic salary plus 50% supplement.
• Rest day/public holiday overtime: Basic salary plus 50% supplement, or a substitute rest day.

Specific categories of employees, such as managers or supervisory roles, may be exempt from overtime provisions. However, mischaracterising roles to evade overtime is not acceptable.