Ramadan in Saudi Arabia: Decreased working hours for banks, Eid holidays

The month of Ramadan is likely one of the most important instances of the 12 months for the Muslim neighborhood worldwide. It’s a time for reflection, prayer, and fasting throughout sunlight hours.

This 12 months, it’s anticipated to fall on March 22 or 23 till April 21. Nonetheless, dates could fluctuate based mostly on the sighting of the brand new crescent moon that signifies the month of Shawwal’s arrival, or after the thirtieth day of Ramadan.

Decreased working hours

In Saudi Arabia, the holy month is marked with numerous traditions and customs which are adopted by Muslims, in addition to non-Muslims who’re residing or visiting the nation. These embody complying with guidelines to respect the customs and Muslims fasting throughout the holy month.

Within the announcement revamped the weekend, SAMA declared that financial institution branches and places of work function from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM throughout the month of Ramadan.

In the meantime, cash switch facilities will function from 9:30 AM to five:30 PM.

The places of work of banks and their seasonal branches at Hajj terminals of airports and sea ports, in addition to in Makkah and Madinah, and border crossings will stay open to serve Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and guests throughout the holidays.

In locations the place there’s a requirement for open headquarters for work throughout sure durations of the vacations, SAMA famous that a variety of branches and switch facilities of banks will stay open as effectively.

This 12 months, the shortened working hours will allow financial institution workers to watch their non secular duties throughout the holy month of Ramadan whereas persevering with to supply important monetary providers to clients.

As for different companies, it’s anticipated that their working hours will probably be decreased to 5, with work beginning at 10:00 AM to three:00 PM, as per the Ministry of Human Sources’ announcement final 12 months.

Eid holidays

The holy month culminates with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a time of festivities and gratitude for the blessings of the previous month. Eid al-Fitr holidays will start on April 17 and run till April 25, SAMA stated.

As for Eid al-Adha, the Pageant of Sacrifice, which commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, it should start on the finish of the working day on Monday June 22 and run till July 1.