Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around 18 February 2026 in the Gulf, subject to the official moon sighting. For expats, the two headline changes are legally reduced working hours — the UAE private sector cuts the day by two hours to a six-hour day — and a public ban on eating, drinking or smoking in daylight. Business slows, evenings come alive with iftar, and non-Muslims are welcome to join the season while observing a few simple courtesies.
When is Ramadan 2026 in the Gulf?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and moves roughly 10–11 days earlier each year. In 2026 it is expected to start on or about 18 February and run for 29 or 30 days, ending with the Eid al-Fitr holiday in mid-to-late March. Exact dates across the six GCC countries are confirmed only when the crescent moon is sighted, so employers usually announce the first working day a day or two ahead.
How much are working hours reduced during Ramadan?
In the UAE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) mandates a two-hour daily reduction for private-sector staff during Ramadan, cutting the standard eight-hour day to six hours — about a 36-hour week instead of 48. This is set under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and applies to all employees regardless of religion, so non-Muslim workers benefit equally.
| Aspect | Ramadan rule (UAE private sector) |
|---|---|
| Daily hours | Reduced by 2 hours (to ~6 hours) |
| Weekly hours | ~36 hours instead of 48 |
| Who is covered | All staff, Muslim and non-Muslim |
| Overtime beyond 6 hours | Paid at 125%–150% |
| Flexible / remote work | Permitted within the reduced daily hours |
Other GCC states apply their own reductions — typically a two-hour cut for fasting employees under their respective labour laws. Rules on end-of-service and pay continue as normal; see our explainer on UAE end-of-service gratuity in 2026 for how entitlements are calculated year-round.
What are the eating and drinking rules in public?
During daylight hours in Ramadan, eating, drinking, smoking and vaping in public are not permitted, out of respect for those fasting. This applies to everyone, including non-Muslims and tourists. In practice:
- Many restaurants and cafes stay open but serve discreetly, and food courts remain operational in most GCC cities.
- Eat and drink at home, in your office pantry or in screened dining areas rather than on the street or on public transport.
- Keep water and snacks out of sight when walking or driving in daylight.
Rules have relaxed in recent years — the UAE, for example, no longer requires restaurants to put up screens — but public discretion during fasting hours remains the norm across the region.
What are iftar and suhoor?
Iftar is the evening meal that breaks the fast at sunset, traditionally started with dates and water, followed by a large communal spread. Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal eaten before the fast begins. Both become major social occasions: hotels, majlis tents and homes host lavish iftar and late-night suhoor gatherings, and non-Muslims are very often invited — accepting is a warm gesture of respect.
How does business change during Ramadan?
Expect a slower pace. Government offices and many companies shift to shorter hours, meetings cluster in the morning, and decision-making can take longer as senior staff observe the fast. Retail and hospitality, by contrast, boom after sunset, with malls and restaurants busy late into the night. Plan deadlines and launches accordingly, and avoid scheduling heavy negotiations in the final fasting hours of the afternoon.
Tips for non-Muslim expats during Ramadan
- Dress a little more modestly than usual, especially in public and government buildings.
- Avoid playing loud music or being visibly boisterous in daylight.
- Greet colleagues with “Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak”.
- Be patient with fasting colleagues, particularly late in the day.
- Say yes to an iftar invitation — it is one of the most rewarding parts of Gulf life.
If you are new to the region, our wider expat guide to living in Doha and our UAE cost-of-living guide give useful context on daily life around the holy month.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-Muslims eat in public during Ramadan?
Not in daylight hours. Eating, drinking and smoking in public are restricted for everyone until sunset. Do so at home, in office pantries or in designated dining areas instead.
Do non-Muslim employees also get reduced hours?
Yes. In the UAE the two-hour daily reduction applies to all private-sector staff regardless of religion.
Are shops and restaurants open during Ramadan?
Yes. Most shops open, though sometimes on shifted hours, and restaurants serve throughout, becoming especially busy after the sunset iftar.
Is alcohol available during Ramadan?
Licensed venues may pause or limit alcohol service during the holy month; availability varies by country and hotel, so check locally.
Bottom line
Ramadan 2026 begins around 18 February across the Gulf, bringing shorter legal working hours, daytime discretion on eating and drinking, and vibrant evenings built around iftar. For expats it is easy to navigate: respect the fast in daylight, enjoy the nights, and accept every iftar invitation that comes your way.
