Pause, reset and restart: a guide to doing business in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan

Home to 2.2m people from 200 nationalities, Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is one of the most diverse places in the world. Powered by unparalleled diversity, the emirate’s business community is forging the region’s future growth.

A number of recent reforms including changes to the work week and the long-term visa programmes – including the Golden Visa and remote work visa– reflects the forward-thinking approach to working and living in the emirate.

One of the most special times of the year in Abu Dhabi is Ramadan. It is a time when residents of the emirate can enjoy its festive spirit.

To help ensure you and your teams can enjoy this time too, here are few things you should know and consider:

• Ramadan working hours: During the month, both private and public sector businesses hours are reduced. For public sector employees, working hours will be 9:00am to 2:30pm from Monday to Thursday and 9:00am to 12:00pm on Fridays.?Timings for the private sector have been reduced by two hours, daily.
• Work around the fast: During Ramadan, the fast starts at sunrise and concludes at sunset. You may notice a dip in the energy levels of people who are fasting toward the end of a working day, so it is good to consider conducting meetings in the morning hours.
• Reset, restart and evaluate: Ramadan is a time of giving and generosity, rooted in the personal and professional reassessment of our core values. Hence, it is a good opportunity to look at your corporate social responsibility activities and/or product offerings to see how you give back to the community.?
• Boost morale: Ramadan is a special month for everyone. It is an opportunity to refresh your business strategies and ensure that you are mindful of all employees. While working hours change, business doesn’t stop. You will find plenty of opportunities to build and extend business relationships during the month.?
• Socialise over an Iftar: Social life in Ramadan is centered around Iftars, which is a sunset meal at the end of the fast each day.?Hosting a social iftar for your employees and partners is an excellent way to connect with them.

In a country that ranks high in global tolerance and coexistence, Abu Dhabi is proudly paving the way to become one of the most diverse places in the world – a place for global professional and business leaders to call home. The emirate’s community can give you and your business a unique chance to elevate your involvement, extend your network and collaborate, especially in a time as special as Ramadan.

If you are based in or visiting Abu Dhabi during Ramadan, you can celebrate and conduct business with special offers across the emirate while staying mindful of the customs and traditions .

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