Options for Dubai's Flexible Summer Work Initiative Announced

The Dubai Government Human Resources Department has announced a special initiative for the summer months, allowing government employees the option to work in a flexible summer schedule.

This move follows a pilot program launched by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department last summer, under the banner "Our Flexible Summer."

When Does the Initiative Start?

According to an official statement, employees will be divided into two groups: the first group works eight hours daily from Monday to Thursday with a full day off on Friday. The second group works seven hours from Monday to Thursday and half a day on Friday.

The initiative will be implemented from July 1 to September 12. It aims to improve employees' quality of life and enhance the sustainability of government resources.

This effort contributes to affirming Dubai's global status as a preferred city for living and working, by offering a new model that balances elements of quality of life.

Flexible Work Options Suitable for Various Departments

After last year’s trial, employees were asked to fill out a survey on summer working hours. Suggestions to reduce working hours in August and September received significant support.

The Human Resources Department collected feedback and concluded that the experience was successful enough to repeat this year.

Detailed Work Hours During the Week

The initiative allows government entities to offer two flexible options for employees within a five-day work week.

Employees May Choose Between Two Work Schedules

• Eight-hour workday from Monday to Thursday, with Friday as a holiday.

• Or, a seven-hour workday from Monday to Thursday, with a 4.5-hour day on Friday.

The statement added: "The initiative will be implemented in line with the official five-day workweek."

Impact on Work Environment Quality

It is noteworthy that there is no change in the total official work hours, but a flexible schedule has been adopted to allow employees to work more comfortably over the next three months.

This year, the Human Resources Department has provided two flexible work options during the summer months, and employees can choose what best suits their work nature and personal comfort.

Last year’s trial data from the Human Resources Department showed a 98% employee satisfaction rate, alongside noticeable improvements in productivity and work environment quality.

Do All Government Entities Participate?

Last year, the Dubai Government Human Resources Department tested a four-day workweek system in 21 government entities, allowing employees to work seven hours daily during August, with Fridays off until September 30.

The department later shared results from this experiment, which highlighted benefits such as improved work-life balance and increased employee productivity.

Flexibility also contributed to enhanced enthusiasm and engagement in the workplace.

According to authorities, participation in the initiative is optional and left to the discretion of each government entity, aiming to improve employee satisfaction and foster a more balanced work culture during the summer months.