Will Jordan’s private sector cut back working hours during Ramadan?

The Ministry of Labor confirmed on Wednesday that the Labor Law does not mandate reduced working hours for the private sector during Ramadan in 2025.

Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Al-Zyoud told Roya that private sector employers have the authority to set working hours for their employees in accordance with the current labor regulations.

Al-Zyoud emphasized that the Prime Minister’s directive—which adjusted working hours for public sector employees in ministries, government agencies, universities, municipalities, and state-owned companies—does not apply to the private sector under the Labor Law.

He further stressed that each private-sector establishment is responsible for determining and regulating its own working hours during Ramadan based on its internal policies.

Read more: PM Hassan announces key infrastructure, investment plans for Mafraq

Earlier, Prime Minister Dr. Jafar Hassan issued an official directive outlining working hours for government institutions in Jordan during the holy month of Ramadan.

According to the directive, official working hours during Ramadan will be from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

Employees whose work requires different hours are exempt from this schedule, with their shifts to be arranged by their department heads based on operational needs.

The directive also stated that regular working hours will resume after the end of Ramadan.

All ministries, government institutions, public universities, municipalities, and official bodies are required to adhere to these guidelines, ensuring flexibility and efficiency while respecting the spirit of the holy month.