What are the maximum working hours per week under UAE labour law?

Hello,

The maximum standard working hours for employees are 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week.

If an employee is required to work beyond the standard working hours, this constitutes overtime and must be compensated.

It is not permissible to work for more than that except in accordance with the conditions and controls specified by the executive regulations of this decree-law, and in all cases the total working hours must not exceed (144) one hundred and forty-four hours every (3) three weeks.

The maximum working hours per week under UAE Labour Law are 48 hours, with a maximum of 8 hours per day, except in certain industries where it can be increased to 9 hours.

Dear Client,

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Under UAE labour law, the maximum working hours per week is 48 hours, typically divided into 8-hour days for a 6-day work week.

Some exceptions exist; retail and hospitality may allow 9-hour days, Ramadan reduces hours by 2 per day, and public sector employees generally work 35 hours weekly.

Overtime is permitted but usually limited to 2 hours daily with additional compensation. Employees are entitled to at least one full day off weekly, typically on Fridays.

The law mandates breaks, with workers receiving at least a one-hour break after every 5 consecutive working hours. These regulations ensure fair working conditions while allowing flexibility for different sectors.

Thanks & Regards,

ABDUL WAHIED

Hello,

Under Federal Decree-Law No. (33) of 2021 Regarding the Regulation of Labour Relations, Article 17 specifies the maximum working hours as follows:

The maximum normal working hours for workers shall be forty-eight hours per week, calculated at eight hours per day, unless the establishment adopts a shorter workweek.

The working hours may be increased to nine hours per day in jobs, industries, and sectors where work must continue without interruption, as specified in the executive regulations of this Decree-Law.

It is important to note that any work beyond these hours is considered overtime, and employees are entitled to compensation as stipulated in the law.

Exceptions and special provisions may apply depending on the sector and the nature of the work.

If you need further clarification or assistance with labor law compliance, please do not hesitate to contact me via phone or email at [----------].

The number of working hours per week is a maximum of 48 hours.

Under the UAE Labor Law No. (33) of 2021, normal weekly working hours are determined as follows:

1. Maximum normal working hours:

The maximum working hours are 48 hours per week. In the case of daily work, normal working hours should not exceed 8 hours per day.

2. Exceptions to weekly work:

Working hours may be increased to 56 hours per week if necessary, provided that overtime pay is paid.

3. Overtime hours:

Any working hours that exceed normal working hours are calculated as overtime. The worker is paid for overtime hours an additional wage that includes the normal hourly wage plus at least 25%, and may reach 50% if the overtime hours are during the night or on official rest days.

4. Weekly rest:

The worker is entitled to a paid weekly rest day (usually Friday), with the possibility of changing it according to the agreement with the employer.

5. Flexible working hours:

Employers have the flexibility to determine working hours in coordination with employees, especially if the employment contract includes part-time or flexible working hours.

6. Special working conditions:

In the case of working in sectors that require long or unusual hours (such as hospitality or construction), working hours arrangements may vary provided that they do not conflict with legal texts.

Note: Adherence to these limits ensures the protection of workers’ rights and the provision of a fair and safe working environment.

Thank you for reaching out with your question regarding working hours under UAE Labour Law.

According to the UAE Labour Law, the maximum working hours are 48 hours per week. This typically means 8 hours a day, 6 days a week. However, during Ramadan, the working hours are reduced to 6 hours per day.

It's important to note that employers and employees can agree to flexible working hours in the employment contract, but the total hours must not exceed the legal limits set by the law.

Additionally, overtime may apply if the employee works beyond the regular working hours, and this is compensated according to the law.