Junior employees should get 50 per cent more of their hourly wage for night shifts
Employees who have to work longer hours in Ramadan must be paid overtime.
During the holy month, a working day becomes shorter by two hours for all Muslim and non-Muslim employees.
Businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and hospitals may require staff to work longer hours but they should be paid overtime.
"For any extra working hour, an employee is entitled to receive their usual remuneration plus an increase of at least 25 per cent of their hourly wage," said Dr Hasan Elhais, legal consultant of Al Rowaad Advocates.
"If the overtime is worked between 9pm and 4am, an employee is entitled to receive their usual remuneration plus an increase of at least 50 per cent of their hourly salary."
The overtime is calculated upon the gross salary (basic pay plus allowances).
Dr Elhais said the overtime rules are applicable throughout the year.
In the UAE, employees are required to work 9 hours with one hour of break time. This reduces by two hours during the holy month.
Overtime must not exceed two hours per day unless the nature of work can prevent substantial loss or serious accident, a rule that also applies during Ramadan, said Dr Elhais.
"The law doesn't mention days off in return for extra hours," he said.
People who are permanently on late shift, such as airport and hospital employees, and if their working hours were mentioned in the contract and agreed upon, are not entitled to extra pay for such shifts.
But they will be entitled to overtime if they work longer hours during Ramadan.
The overtime rule only applies to junior staff and not those in senior roles, said Dr Hasan.
"In case employees are not paid for the extra hours worked, they should request payment and if it doesn't happen, they must complain to the Ministry of Human Resources," he said.
Businesses that The National spoke to said they plan ahead to ensure staff do not have to work extra hours.
"We will give full benefit of reduced working hours to our regular staff, including the general manager," said Asier Baquero, general manager at Occidental Sharjah Grand Hotel.
"There are no overtime hours generated during Ramadan. We employ outsourced staff to cover the reduced working hours."
Zulekha Healthcare Group said it also tries to not burden employees with extra hours during Ramadan.
"Considering the holy month, working hours of our clinical and non-clinical staff are always planned ahead to ensure employees maintain a balance while fasting," said Taher Shams, managing director of Zulekha Healthcare Group.
Staff work on a rota to ensure patient care is not compromised and emergency services are always available.
"Our doctors are scheduled on shifts between 9am to midnight on all days during the month and they get their scheduled weeks off as well. Doctors across all specialities are also available on call as and when required," he said.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
I owe the success of my case to Dr. Hassan's diligent approach. He remained focused, put me at ease and always went the extra mile. Dr. Hassan tirelessly put my case in the best possible light and I cannot thank him enough. I would highly recommend Dr. Hassan - I am grateful to him from the bottom of my heart.
Dr. Hassan Elhais is among the best legal consultants I have ever worked with. He has an amazing ability to reduce complex issues into a simple concept that non-legal people can understand. He consistently develops innovative litigation strategies that help us to achieve our ultimate legal goals.
...the extraordinary effort that has been exerted by the staff, and we specially thank Dr. Hassan Mohsen Alhais. Wishing your continues success & excellence...
I believe everyone should recognize what a difference Dr. Hassan Elhais work has made to people's lives; and especially to our family's life, because we will remain forever grateful to each and every one of his team.
Dr. Hassan Elhais never fears cases that involve exposure and he always gives me his honest assessment of our chances of success, which is invaluable to me.
He aided us not only in providing legal advice but also in all legal issues that required a long term strategic approach to achieve most favorable and optimum outcomes he provided us with high level of professional service.
Dr. Hassan Elhais is a responsible, reputable counsel who operates to high levels of service.
Dr Hassan Elhais is responsive, thorough and creative with his advice, and is a valued advisor and legal consultant.
Regardless of the complexity of the matter I know Dr. Hassan Elhais will consider not only legal strategy but also business practicalities in providing advice and litigation options.
I recommend Dr. Hassan Elhais to anyone who says 'I'm in legal trouble'. I was extremely satisfied with the high standard of his work. He has always been there when I have needed him and I refer all my clients, family and friends to him/his firm.
Dr. Hassan Elhais was very professional and he listened to my needs. He was very prompt, efficient and always kept me informed. Dr. Hassan Elhais's service was excellent and I would definitely recommend him to friends and colleagues.
Contact Me