Inspectors will make sure companies abide by reduced hours

Firms are required to to cut work-day timings by two hours during the holy month for both Muslim and non-Muslim staff.

DUBAI // Inspection teams will be sent to companies accused of flouting the Ministry of Labour’s reduced working day rule in Ramadan.

“Violating it might pose sanctions, warnings and suspensions, but no fines,” a ministry spokesman said.

Employers will be called to meet with ministry officials who will explain the reasons and benefits of reduced hours, after which a warning will be issued for immediate compliance.

Inspection of worksites and awareness campaigns will also help to curb irregularities, said the spokesman. The ministry has the authority to suspend work visas of staff at companies that continue to disregard rules, which will result in extra costs to find new workers.

“The ministry may terminate the employment relationship between the worker and the owner of the offending company if found violating,” said the spokesman. He said this would give employees the right to find work in another company.

Details were not available about the number of complaints received so far this Ramadan.

Disgruntled employees can complain at labour service centres, by calling the 800 665 helpline or sending a letter signed by staff to the ministry’s labour disputes department.

The Labour Law says: “The maximum normal working hours for employees shall be eight hours a day or 48 hours a week.

“Working hours for employees of commercial establishments, hotels, restaurants, watchmen and similar operations may be increased to nine hours a day as determined by the Minister of Labour.

“Likewise, working hours per day in respect of hazardous work or work detrimental to health may be decreased by decision of the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs.”