The Ministry of Economic Development has announced revised operating hours for commercial shops and food and beverage service providers for the upcoming month of Ramadan, in line with adjustments made each year to accommodate changes in daily routines during the fasting period.
Under the schedule published by the ministry, food and beverage service providers will be permitted to operate daily from 5.30 pm until 3.00 am throughout Ramadan. The same extended hours will apply during the first seven days of Shawwal, with outlets allowed to open earlier, from 4.30 am until 3.00 am, reflecting increased activity during the Eid period.
Commercial shops will also operate under adjusted timings. During Ramadan and the first seven days of Shawwal, shops may open from 5.30 am and remain open until 1.00 am. These extended hours are intended to give residents greater flexibility to shop outside fasting hours, particularly in the evenings.
The ministry noted that the changes follow established practice and are designed to support both businesses and the public during the holy month. According to the Islamic calendar, the first day of Ramadan is expected to fall on 18 February, subject to the sighting of the moon.
