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Working hours for UAE private sector revealed during Ramadan
The private sector in the UAE will work at reduced capacity during the holy month of Ramadan as per norm.
The working day for employees in the private sector will be shortened by two hours, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced.
Just as the standard policy over the years, the ministry’s circular said firms can introduce flexible or remote work schedules during the month when people fast and observe strict rules during the day.
Schedules go for a toss with family gatherings and dining out until the early hours of morning means work can get compromised.
“In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits of the daily working hours during the days of Ramadan,” the ministry added.
The act of fasting is meant to remind Muslims of the less fortunate and to reinforce the need to be thankful. As one of the five pillars, or duties, of Islam, fasting during the month of Ramadan is mandatory for all healthy adult Muslims.
In continuation with the spirit of giving during the holy month, Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the World Trade Centre to support a campaign where volunteers are packing relief supplies for Turkey and Syria.
Video: @HHShkMohd visits the ‘Bridges of Giving’ campaign at the #Dubai World Trade Centre. The campaign has attracted 2,000 volunteers who are packing relief supplies for Turkey and Syria. pic.twitter.com/vU3mkTcvjq
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 13, 2023
Drivers in Dubai could soon experience dramatically shorter journeys as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that the huge Al Khaleej Street Tunnel Project is now 80 per cent complete.
Part of the wider Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, the development is expected to reduce travel times from 104 minutes to just 16 minutes by 2030.
One of Dubai’s biggest road projects
The giant tunnel project stretches approximately 1,650 metres, extending from the end of the Infinity Bridge ramp in Deira to the intersection of Al Khaleej Street and Al Wuheida Street.
Once completed, the project is expected to serve around one million people across several rapidly growing districts.
The tunnel includes:
- Three lanes in each direction
- Capacity for up to 12,000 vehicles per hour, both ways
- Development of 15 major intersections
Areas set to benefit
The upgraded road network will improve connectivity to several key areas, including:
- Dubai Islands
- Waterfront Market
- Dubai Maritime City
- Port Rashid
Officials say the project is designed to support population growth and keep pace with rapid urban expansion across the emirate.
Round-the-clock construction
To meet the planned completion schedule in the fourth quarter of this year:
- 14 teams are working continuously on excavation support
- Four additional teams are handling tunnel excavation works 24/7
Current excavation output stands at:
- 5,000 to 6,000 cubic metres daily
- Expected to increase to 8,500 cubic metres in the next phase
Massive safety milestone reached
The RTA also revealed the project has been completed nearly:
- Eight million work hours
- With zero lost-time injuries reported
The workforce currently includes:
- 1,591 engineers, technicians and workers
- 221 machines and heavy equipment across sites
Tunnel inspired by Dubai’s skyline
Adding a creative touch to the infrastructure project, the inside of the tunnel will feature a mosaic mural designed by Emirati artist Maryam Hathboor.
The artwork is inspired by banknote-style illustrations showcasing Dubai’s skyline, blending public art with urban engineering.
For commuters frustrated by heavy traffic, this project could eventually become one of the city’s most game-changing transport upgrades yet.
From 104 minutes to 16: How new Dubai tunnel is set to change your daily commute
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