Qatar announces public sector working hours for Ramadan 2026/Representative Image
As Ramadan approaches, Qatar has announced shorter working hours for government employees during the holy month of Ramadan, confirming that public sector staff will work five hours per day throughout the period. The decision was issued under Circular No. (1) of 2026 by the Cabinet’s General Secretariat, following a proposal from the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau. Under the new directive, civil servants across ministries, government agencies and public institutions will work from 09:00 to 14:00. Employees may report as late as 10:00, provided they complete the full five-hour working day and operational requirements are not affected. The circular also sets out remote working arrangements for Ramadan. No more than 30 per cent of total staff will be permitted to work from home. Priority for remote work will be given to Qatari mothers and people with disabilities, subject to service continuity and institutional needs. Working hours in the health and education sectors will be determined separately. The Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education will set official schedules in line with the nature of their respective duties. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is expected to begin on Wednesday or Thursday, depending on the sighting of the moon.
