Oman Announces Ramadan 2026 Working Hours
New work schedule announced for Ramadan 1447 AH balances productivity with observance across public and private sectors
- Publish date: since 3 hours Reading time: 1 min read
The Ministry of Labour has announced the official working hours for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH (2026) for both public and private sector employees, outlining reduced hours and flexible arrangements designed to support worship and workplace needs, the ministry confirmed on Tuesday.
Under the guidelines, civil units of the State’s administrative apparatus will operate on a standard daily schedule of five continuous hours, running from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout Ramadan. Flexibility has been built into the schedule, allowing unit heads to adjust start and end times between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. based on operational requirements, with total hours calculated from employee arrival to departure.
In addition, the ministry has permitted remote work for roles where duties can be performed offsite without disrupting operations, provided at least 50 % of staff are physically present at the workplace.
For the private sector, the ministry said that Muslim employees will have their working hours reduced to a maximum of six hours per day, not exceeding 30 hours per week during Ramadan. Employers are encouraged to adopt flexible work arrangements where possible to help balance productivity with the spiritual demands of the holy month.
The announcement aims to ease daily routines for fasting employees while maintaining essential services and business continuity across the Sultanate. Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around mid-February, pending the sighting of the new moon.
Authorities said the updated timings reflect Oman's ongoing efforts to support worker well-being and align public and private sector practices with cultural and religious observance during one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar.