Do Ramadan reduced hours apply to free zone employees in the UAE?

The two-hour daily Ramadan reduction is a feature of the UAE Labour Law that applies to employers and employees governed by that law. Many free zones follow the federal Labour Law for employment matters, in which case the Ramadan reduction applies in the same way. However, some free zones — particularly financial free zones such as DIFC and ADGM — operate their own employment regimes with their own rules on working hours, so the treatment of Ramadan hours can differ there. The practical answer therefore depends on which legal framework governs your specific free zone and contract. To be certain, check whether your free zone applies the federal Labour Law or its own employment regulations, and review your company's HR policy and the relevant guidance for the year. Your free zone authority and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation can confirm which rules apply. If the reduction should apply to you and is being withheld, you can raise it through the appropriate channel. You can also compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI to confirm which regime covers your role.