Oman has officially confirmed its Ramadan 2026 working hours, giving both public and private sector employees clarity ahead of the holy month.
The announcement came from the Ministry of Labour, outlining reduced office hours across government entities and private establishments. As expected during Ramadan, daily working hours will be shortened to support those observing the fast.
For many in the UAE who work with Omani companies or frequently travel between Dubai and Muscat, this update is important. Ramadan working hours often affect meeting schedules, project timelines, and cross-border operations across the GCC.
Here’s what has been confirmed so far.
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Government Offices to Operate Five Hours Daily
Public sector employees in Oman will work five hours per day during Ramadan 2026.
Official government timings will run from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm throughout the holy month.
This adjustment follows the standard practice seen across Gulf countries every Ramadan. Reduced hours allow employees more time for prayer, rest, and family commitments in the evening.
In practical terms, this means earlier closures for ministries, service centres, and administrative offices. Anyone planning official paperwork or government visits in Oman during Ramadan should factor in the shorter schedule.
For Dubai residents used to Ramadan rhythms, this feels familiar. Just like in the UAE, mornings tend to be more productive, while afternoons slow down as Iftar approaches.
Private Sector Employees Capped at Six Hours
The Ministry of Labour also confirmed that private sector employees will work a maximum of six hours per day during Ramadan.
This applies to Muslim employees observing the fast, in line with labour regulations. Companies are required to comply with the reduced working hours.
Many businesses may also introduce flexible arrangements. Some opt for earlier start times. Others allow remote work or split shifts depending on operational needs.
Across the GCC, Ramadan work culture is different. Meetings are usually scheduled earlier in the day. Non-urgent tasks are often postponed. Even emails tend to slow down by late afternoon.
For UAE-based companies managing regional operations, this update allows better planning. Teams coordinating between Dubai and Oman can adjust expectations well in advance.
How This Impacts Daily Life in Oman?
Ramadan changes the pace of life everywhere in the region. Oman is no exception.
With shorter office hours, evenings become more active. After Iftar, restaurants fill up. Malls stay busy. Families gather late into the night.
Government offices closing at 2:00 pm means errands must be done early. Private businesses may also adjust customer-facing hours.
For those travelling from the UAE to Oman during Ramadan, it’s worth planning. Whether it’s business meetings or quick getaways, understanding the revised timings avoids last-minute surprises.
It’s also common for banks and service providers to announce separate Ramadan schedules. Those updates are usually confirmed closer to the start of the month.
If you’re tracking regional announcements, you can also keep an eye on UAE Ramadan 2026 working hours, school timing changes during Ramadan, and official moon sighting updates across the Gulf. These tend to follow similar patterns.
When Will Ramadan 2026 Begin?
While working hours are now confirmed, the exact start date of Ramadan 2026 will depend on the moon sighting.
Astronomical predictions suggest the holy month is expected to begin in late February or early March. However, official confirmation will come from religious authorities following the sighting of the crescent moon.
Across the UAE and Oman, residents usually wait for formal announcements just days before Ramadan begins.
Once confirmed, businesses and institutions will immediately shift to the reduced schedule.
A Familiar Pattern Across the GCC
Reduced Ramadan working hours are standard across the Gulf.
In the UAE, federal government employees typically work five hours during Ramadan. Private sector reductions are also mandated under labour law. Oman follows a similar structure, ensuring balance between productivity and religious observance.
The goal is simple. Maintain essential services. Respect the spiritual importance of the month.
For many employees, the shorter workday makes a real difference. Fasting from sunrise to sunset can be physically demanding, especially as temperatures begin to rise.
Even in cities like Dubai and Muscat, where modern offices are climate-controlled, the daily routine shifts. People pace themselves differently. Energy peaks in the morning. Evenings are reserved for prayer, reflection, and time with family.
What Businesses Should Do Now?
With the Oman Ramadan 2026 working hours confirmed, businesses operating in or with Oman should review their Ramadan plans.
This includes:
- Adjusting meeting times
- Informing clients of revised office hours
- Reviewing staffing schedules
- Planning deliveries and deadlines accordingly
Clear communication is key. Many companies send Ramadan circulars to clients and partners outlining temporary changes.
For UAE-based firms with Omani branches, alignment between both countries’ Ramadan hours helps maintain smooth operations.
Oman has officially set its Ramadan 2026 working schedule.
Public sector employees will work five hours daily from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Private sector employees will work a maximum of six hours per day.
As Ramadan approaches, these changes will shape daily routines across the country.
For businesses, early preparation makes all the difference. For employees, the shorter day allows more space to focus on the spiritual side of the month.
Stay tuned for further updates on moon sighting confirmations and related GCC announcements.
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