Why cut work hours during Ramadan

It is time to think whether the reduced timings during Ramadan should be changed and people should work normal hours, a number of professionals and Islamic scholars say.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs says working hours for all workers, Muslim and non-Muslim, should be reduced from eight to six during Ramadan.

The question has now been raised: with all the UAE's modern amenities, why should working hours be reduced? In the past it could be understood that the hours were reduced because of the intense heat. But that has changed.

These professionals also say working hours being reduced for labourers is justified because they have to work in the sun. Some also question why the rule is extended to non-Muslims.

Abdul Rahman, an Islamic scholar, says there is no clear text in the Sharia or Holy Quran that says working hours must be reduced during Ramadan.

"I am against these reduced working hours. They should remain the same because the person benefits more during the month. His reward is double if he works, fasts and worships God. Working in Ramadan is like jihad.

"There are some people who abuse these reduced working hours to rest instead of worship. Hours can be reduced during the last 10 days of Ramadan when Muslims have to stay awake all night for Laylat Al Qadr."

Dr Saif Bin Rashid Al Gabiri, Director of Ifta and Research Administration in the Dubai Department of Islamic Affairs and Awqaf, said: "The month of Ramadan is a month of performing rituals, praying and fasting.

"However, working is part of worshipping. The Sharia does not force the employer to reduce working hours. There is no clause that says working hours must be reduced.

"On the other hand, Muslims must get time to fulfil their religious duties."

A UAE national businesswoman said the reduced working hours encourage laziness and idleness.

"It takes a person almost two hours to start working during normal days so with the reduced working hours when will they exactly work?"

Hatem Al Jinabi, Director of the Labour Relations Department in the Labour Ministry, speculated that the law reducing working hours from eight to six hours was passed to protect construction workers and those working outdoors.

Responding to a question on why non-Muslims have to conform to these reduced hours, he said: "This is an Islamic country and the laws of the country apply to all."