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IMPACT – MEDIUM
What is the change? The Islamic month of Ramadan is expected to begin around June 6. Many Muslim countries will observe shorter business hours that will slow processing during the month.
What does the change mean? Companies and individuals should expect delays and plan to file time-sensitive applications as soon as possible.
Background: Countries across the Muslim world will observe the month of Ramadan, expected to begin around June 6 or 7 and end around July 5 or 6. Exact dates are confirmed closer to the start of the lunar month. During the month, Muslims increase self-reflection and fast during daylight hours. As such, many countries with majority Muslim populations limit business hours.
In the United Arab Emirates, government offices will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and the private sector will generally conduct business from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., depending on the office.
The Eid al-Fitr holiday, immediately following Ramadan, will close offices for three or more days in countries across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
BAL Analysis: Businesses are reminded to plan ahead to minimize unnecessary delays to visa and work permit applications and business schedules.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.
Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.
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