What are the standard working hours under UAE Labour Law?

Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), the standard maximum working time for private-sector employees is 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. These are ceilings, not targets, so your contract or company policy may set fewer hours. Certain sectors and roles can have these hours increased or reduced by decision of the relevant authority, and specific arrangements apply to work that runs in shifts. The daily count is the time you are actually required to be at work performing your duties; rules also exist on rest breaks so you are not required to work several continuous hours without a pause. During the holy month of Ramadan, normal working hours are reduced. If your employer schedules you beyond the legal daily or weekly limit, the extra time is generally treated as overtime and must be compensated accordingly. For your exact entitlement, check your employment contract and confirm with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). You can also compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI if you need advice on a specific situation.