Qatar cuts working hours for Ramadan, expands flexible work

The State of Qatar has announced reduced official working hours for government employees during the holy month of Ramadan, under Circular No. (1) of 2026 issued by the Cabinet’s General Secretariat.

The decision follows a proposal by the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau and applies to civil servants across ministries, government agencies and public institutions.

Under the directive, official working hours will be capped at five hours per day, from 09:00 to 14:00. Employees may arrive as late as 10:00, subject to work requirements, provided they complete the full five-hour workday.

The circular also introduces a structured remote working framework during Ramadan. No more than 30% of total staff will be permitted to work from home, with priority given to Qatari mothers and employees with disabilities, provided operational continuity is maintained.

Working hours in the health and education sectors will be determined separately by the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, reflecting the nature of their services.

Separately, the Ministry of Labour announced reduced working hours for private sector employees. The ministry said working hours in private establishments during Ramadan will be set at 36 hours per week, with a maximum of six hours per day, in line with the provisions of the Labour Law.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, began on Wednesday, February 17, 2026, following the sighting of the moon.