Page 121 - SALIK PR REPORT DECEMBER 2024

“The new tariffs for parking and Salik would only add to the financial burden of
motorists.

“Our roads remain congested during peak hours, even on alternative routes. To truly
alleviate traffic, a more comprehensive approach is needed, such as implementing
flexible work hours and hybrid work models for employees," added da Costa, who is
also director for PR and media at the Philippine Business Council — Dubai and
Northern Emirates.

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Richelle Fosberry, another long-time Dubai resident and head of operations at Mojo PR,
is also doubtful of the dynamic pricing scheme for Salik and parking that would take
effect by January and March, respectively, next year.

“Personally, the peak hours are unavoidable as they coincide with my work and meeting
schedules. I will have to leave home during off-peak hours to avoid additional Salik
costs. But, if I could work from home on some days of the week or have flexible working
hours, I could adjust my daily commute. Working from home twice a week is a great
perk that helps mitigate some of the impact of the new pricing scheme,” she added.

Perks of remote work policies

Last month, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Government
Human Resources (DGHR) released encouraging results of the two surveys they
conducted early this year on flexible working hours.

About 87 per cent of Dubai Government employees feel that flexible working hours align
with their personal needs, while 89.4 per cent agree that these hours enhance their
productivity. The survey also shows that 80.4 per cent believe their productivity while
working remotely matches that in the office, with 90 per cent reporting no issues with
communication or connectivity with colleagues or managers.

The results of the two surveys indicate that 32 per cent of private firms currently
implement remote work, while 58 per cent are ready to expand these policies.

With regards to reducing road congestion, the authorities said “implementing flexible
working hours, with a two-hour start window, and remote work — allowing four to five
such workdays per month — can reduce morning peak travel time across Dubai by 30
per cent".

Both the public and private sectors are encouraged to adopt these practices to reduce
traffic congestion and balance business productivity with quality of life, the RTA and the
DGHR said.

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/dubai-more-residents-call-for-flexible-work-hours-as-salik-
parking-fees-go-up-next-year