UAE Working Hours Explained: What Counts, What Doesn’t & When You’re Owed Overtime
If you’re living and working in the UAE, understanding your rights at work is essential. One of the most important areas to be aware of is your working hours — how many hours you can legally work, what counts as work time, and when overtime applies.
Let’s break down Article 15 of the UAE Labour Law in a simple and practical way.
When Travel Time Counts as Work Time
Believe it or not, in some situations, your commute to work might actually count as part of your working hours.
Here are the three cases where this applies:
Shorter Working Hours During Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, the law gives all workers — regardless of religion — a 2-hour reduction in their daily working time. This is a mandatory rule and applies across all sectors, unless the job is exempt.
Rules About Overtime
Employers in the UAE can ask employees to work extra hours, but the law places strict limits to prevent overworking.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Maximum 2 hours of overtime per day
- Total working hours (including overtime) must not go beyond 144 hours over a 3-week period
- More than 2 hours can only be allowed in emergency cases, like preventing a serious incident or financial loss
This protects employees from burnout while allowing room for occasional extended workdays when absolutely necessary.
Who Is Not Covered by Standard Hour Limits?
Certain roles and job types are exempt from the usual working hour limits. These include:
Senior executives, board members, and those in top management
Supervisors who act with authority similar to the employer
Ship crew members and seafarers with unique job conditions
Employees working in continuous shifts (up to 56 hours per week)
People handling tasks that must be done before or after normal hours (like setup or technical prep work)
Additionally, the UAE Minister of Labour can issue updates listing more roles based on the needs of the job market.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Time, Know Your Rights
Understanding Article 15 helps both employees and employers stay within legal boundaries. Whether it’s knowing when your overtime is valid or if your commute counts as paid time, this law ensures clarity and fairness in the workplace.
If you’re unsure about your work schedule or feel like your rights are being overlooked, it’s always wise to seek legal advice — or start by joining a support network.
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