In less than a month, Ramadan 2026 is expected to start. This festive month brings spiritual reflection, gatherings, celebrations, community bonding, and adjusted daily routines. From revised working and school hours to fasting and iftar timings, knowing what to expect during Ramadan helps you plan better. It also keeps you productive and helps in maintaining a healthy work-life balance throughout the holy month.

When Will Ramadan Start in 2026?

The holy month of Ramadan is expected to start between 17th February and 19th February, 2026. This information is based on the Hijri to Gregorian Date Conversion tool of Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. However, the official date will depend on the crescent moon sighting. 

On the other hand, the month is expected to end on 19th March, 2026.

Working Hours for Ramadan 2026 

• The UAE labour law has announced mandatory reduced working hours during Ramadan for all employees (Muslim and non-Muslim).
• For Government sector employees, the work timings are as follows —
  • Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • This also includes options for flexible/remote work on Fridays for many ministries
• For those working in the private sector —
  • Daily working hours are reduced by 2 hours, e.g., from a normal 9-hour shift to about 7 hours (actual time may vary by company).

(Exact office schedules may vary by employer and operational needs, but the two-hour reduction is the baseline under UAE labour rules.)

2026 Ramadan School Hours 

• Schools across the UAE typically shorten school hours during Ramadan, especially near fasting hours
• Most schools adopt a maximum of 5 hours per day (approx) during Ramadan, ending earlier than normal to align with warm afternoons and prayer times
• Fridays are generally early dismissal days — often before 11:30 AM — to accommodate Friday prayer time changes

(School authorities and education regulators confirm the exact school schedules closer to Ramadan.)

Fasting Hours During Ramadan 2026

Fasting during Ramadan 2026 will be shorter than in the summer months because the holy month falls in late winter to early spring.

Hence, the expected fasting duration is around —

• 12 – 13 hours at the beginning of Ramadan
• 13 – 14 hours by mid to end of Ramadan

Iftar Timings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi For Ramadan 2026

The predicted timings in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for Iftar are —

Approx Timings in Dubai

• Early Ramadan Iftar — 6:15 PM
• Mid-month — 6:23 PM
• Later Ramadan — 6:30 PM

Approx Timings in Abu Dhabi

• Early Ramadan Iftar — 6:19 PM
• Mid-month — 6:26 PM
• Later Ramadan — 6:33 PM

Note: Actual times depend on the exact sunrise/sunset on each day and local authority prayer tables.

How to Adjust Your Regular Schedule in Ramadan?

Following your regular routine during the holy month of Ramadan can be challenging. You must keep up with your daily chores, fasting, and timely prayers. Here are some pro tips to follow during the festive season to maintain optimum health and productivity —

Plan Your Leaves Mindfully

Ramadan is a time when energy levels may fluctuate due to fasting. It is essential to manage your annual leave wisely. Align your days off with important days and family commitments. Alternatively, you can plan your leaves as per extended weekends to maximise rest and productivity. 

Requesting leaves in advance also helps avoid last-minute mismanagement at work. With wise planning, you can focus on timely worship, family time, and personal well-being without feeling overwhelmed during the holy month.

Plan ahead With Your Work and School Tasks

Always plan and prioritise your household and school/ office work before Ramadan starts. During this time, your daily schedule changes. Complete important work assignments and school projects ahead of time to reduce pressure during fasting hours. 

Be practical and set deadlines. Prioritise essential tasks to maintain productivity without draining most of your energy. For students, breaking studies into shorter sessions can improve focus.

Maintain Constant Communication

Clear communication with family members, friends, colleagues, managers, and teachers helps manage expectations during Ramadan. Inform your school and workplace authorities about any schedule adjustments or your availability.

Staying transparent avoids misunderstandings and ensures efficient time management. Open communication also allows flexibility in meetings, deadlines, and work responsibilities, eventually making it easier to balance your fasting days. 

Schedule Your Worship Time

Ramadan is a spiritually significant period, so adjust your time for worship accordingly. Plan your prayers and Quran recitation around your daily responsibilities. Early mornings and evenings after iftar are ideal for worship without hampering your other schedules. 

With a structured routine, you can stay consistent. Proper planning allows you to make the most of Ramadan spiritually.

Maintain Your Health

Maintaining good health during Ramadan 2026 is necessary for sustaining energy levels throughout the fast. Focus on balanced meals during Suhoor and Iftar — including enough nutrients — and keep yourself hydrated.

Avoid overeating and excessive caffeine. Adequate sleep and light physical activity also contribute to your overall well-being. A healthy routine helps you remain active, productive, and spiritually focused during Ramadan.

Wrapping Up

With worship, gatherings, and family time, Ramadan brings significant changes in your daily schedule, eating patterns, sleep cycles, and energy levels. This can cause unexpected health issues, such as dehydration, fatigue, or even impact your pre-existing medical conditions, if any. 

In such a situation, comprehensive health insurance comes to your rescue. You have access to instant and cashless medical consultations, emergency care, and other medical facilities if needed. With the right health insurance plan, you can focus on worship, health, and celebrations without worrying about medical expenses.
Wishing you all a safer, healthier, and more fulfilling holy month of Ramadan!

Popular Searches: Family Health Insurance | Medical Insurance Companies in Dubai | Medical Insurance in Dubai | Senior Citizen Health Insurance | Health Insurance For Kids | How to Check Medical Insurance Status with Emirates ID | Maternity Insurance in UAE | Health Insurance Abu Dhabi | Travel Insurance