Page 142 - DGHR PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/12/24, 9:56 AM Dubai to implement 4-day workweek for 15 public-sector entities
This move aligns with global trends observed in countries such as
Belgium and Portugal, which have already adopted reduced work

hours to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.

Inspired by international successes, where shorter workdays have

proven effective without compromising productivity, Dubai is

launching its own version of this trend. The ‘Our Summer is Flexible’
initiative will introduce a seven-hour workday, four days a week, with

Fridays off. Running until 30 September, this pilot programme is

designed to improve workplace flexibility, promote better work-life

balance and enhance employee wellbeing.

The decision to implement this pilot programme follows the
successful example set by Sharjah, which shifted to a four-day

workweek in January 2022. Sharjah reported an 88 per cent increase

in productivity and a 90 per cent rise in job satisfaction, along with a

94 per cent customer-service satisfaction rate, highlighting the

potential advantages of reduced work hours.
Currently, most government employees in Dubai enjoy a two-and-a-

half-day weekend. Under this new initiative, employees at

participating government departments will benefit from an extended

weekend for the duration of the trial.

Throughout the trial, the Dubai Government Human Resources
Department (DGHR) will assess the impact on employees and overall

productivity through regular evaluations. Findings from both local

and international studies support the notion that fewer work hours

can lead to improved productivity. The DGHR will compile feedback

into a final report, summarising the initiative’s outcomes and offering

recommendations for its potential adoption across various
government entities.

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