Doha: The State of Qatar has announced a reduction in official working hours for government employees during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, as detailed in a circular issued by the Cabinet's General Secretariat.

According to Qatar News Agency, the decision, designated as Circular No. (1) of 2026, was made following a proposal from the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau. During Ramadan, civil servants in ministries, government agencies, and public institutions will work five hours per day, from 09:00 to 14:00. The circular also permits employees to start as late as 10:00, provided they complete the required five-hour working day.

Additionally, the circular stipulates that remote working will be implemented during Ramadan, with no more than 30% of the total staff allowed to work from home. Priority for remote work will be given to Qatari mothers and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that operational needs remain unaffected.

For employees in the health and education sectors, the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education will establish their official working hours, considering the specific nature of their duties. Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is anticipated to commence on Wednesday or Thursday, contingent on the sighting of the moon.