Last Updated on August 30, 2024 by Vadim
A common question among employees and employers in the United Arab Emirates is whether the standard 8-hour workday includes lunch break. Let’s delve into the UAE labor laws to clarify this matter.
Standard Working Hours in UAE
According to Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law:
- Maximum standard working hours: 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week
- Applies to most private sector employees
Break Periods Under UAE Labor Law
Article 66 of the UAE Labour Law stipulates:
- Employees should not work more than five consecutive hours without breaks
- Breaks are for rest, meals, and prayer
- Total break period should not be less than one hour
- These break intervals are not included in the working hours
Lunch Break in UAE: Not Part of 8-Hour Workday
Based on these regulations:
- Lunch break is part of the mandated rest periods
- It is not counted as part of the 8-hour workday
Practical Implementation of Work Hours in UAE
In practice, this means:
- A typical workday is often structured as 9 hours in total
- 8 hours of work
- 1 hour for lunch and other breaks
- Example schedule: 8 AM to 5 PM, with a one-hour lunch break
Exceptions to Standard Working Hours
- Some sectors (e.g., hospitality) may have up to 9 working hours per day
- During Ramadan, working hours are typically reduced by 2 hours per day
Official Sources for UAE Labor Laws
For the most up-to-date information, refer to:
These sources provide full texts of labor laws and recent amendments.
Conclusion
In the UAE, the 8-hour workday does not include the lunch break. The lunch break is considered part of the mandated rest periods and is in addition to the standard working hours. Both employers and employees should ensure compliance with these regulations to maintain fair working conditions.
Stay informed about UAE labor laws and your rights as an employee by following JobXDubai for the latest updates and insights on employment in the Emirates.
Vadim Kouznetsov is a distinguished entrepreneur and the visionary founder and CEO of JobXDubai.com, the UAE’s rapidly expanding job board. Renowned for his expertise in bridging the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities, Vadim has become a leading authority in the recruitment and job market of Dubai.
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